Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) Defined

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic or hypersensitive reaction to a fungus known as Aspergillus fumigatus. This is a fungi found in the soil.

Although most of us are frequently exposed to Aspergillus, a reaction to it is rare in people with normal immune systems.

However, in certain people the immune system overreacts to the antigens of Aspergillus fumigatus in the lungs. This may damage the airways and result in permanent lung damage such as fibrosis.

ABPA most commonly affects people with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Many people with ABPA also suffer from allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and sinusitis.

Learn more about ABPA.

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