What is an Aspergilloma

[auntiebi0tics]

An aspergilloma, also known as a fungus ball, is a clump of Aspergillus fungus that grows within a pre-existing cavity in the lung.  

Formation:
Aspergilloma develops when Aspergillus spores colonise and grow within a cavity in the lung. These cavities can be caused by various conditions, including:  
Tuberculosis  
Cystic fibrosis  
Emphysema  
Sarcoidosis
Previous lung infections or surgeries
Researching this I found this applies to me as I have had tuberculosis amongst other infections in the past

Symptoms:
Many people with aspergilloma experience no symptoms. However, some may develop:  
Coughing, which may sometimes bring up blood (hemoptysis)  
(I coughed up blood for first time last week. Literally bloody scary)
Wheezing  
Shortness of breath  
Chest pain 

Diagnosis:
Diagnosis typically involves:
Chest X-ray or CT scan  
Sputum tests (to identify Aspergillus)  

Treatment:
Treatment options may include:
Observation: If the aspergilloma is small and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it closely.  
Antifungal medications: In some cases, oral or intravenous antifungal medications may be prescribed to help shrink or eliminate the fungus ball.   Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the aspergilloma.
 
Important Note: Aspergilloma can sometimes cause complications, such as bleeding or infection.
If you have any concerns about potential symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.