pathogenesis
Last reviewed 01/2018
The presence of aspergillus in the bronchial wall results in an inflammatory process:
- mucus production is increased
- plugging of the airways causes distal collapse of the airways
- bronchiectasis occurs
The inhalation of Aspergillus fumigatus spores can elicit an acute allergic response:
- an immediate type I IgE response results in mast cell degranulation with bronchoconstriction and increased capillary permeability
- the leakage of anti-aspergillus antibodies into the bronchi results in a delayed type III response 4-6 hours after exposure