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Zhu B, Zhu J, Sheng L, Yao Y, Zhou H. Evaluation of the Dynamiker Quantitative Anti-Aspergillus Fumigatus Specific Detection for the Diagnosis of Different Kinds of Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:4175-4184. [PMID: 39347489 PMCID: PMC11439367 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s479714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody test is considered to be the most reliable method for diagnosing chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), while its diagnostic roles in different kinds of CPA are still uncertain and it is a challenge of having a threshold to interpret the IgG levels. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the Dynamiker quantitative Aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG antibody in different types of CPA with the aim of providing a reference for clinical work. Methods This prospective study collected the clinical data of patients with suspected CPA admitted to the hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 and divided them into two groups: CPA and non-CPA. The study analyzed clinical characteristics and Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody test's diagnostic value, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate diagnostic efficacy. Results We enrolled 54 CPA patients and 132 non-CPA patients. The average admission age of the CPA group was 61.0 (43.8, 70.0) years, and the sex ratio was 32/22 (male/female). The level of Aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG antibody in the CPA group was significantly higher than the non-CPA group (95.2 (31.3, 213.3) vs 47.5 (34.0, 80.3) AU/mL, p = 0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.653 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.580-0.721, p = 0.003). The cutoff with the best diagnostic efficacy was 87 AU/mL, and the sensitivity and specificity were 57.4% and 77.3%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the level of specific IgG antibody among the five CPA types (p = 0.543); however, it was relatively higher in chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA). Conclusion Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody is valuable diagnostic marker for CPA, while its value in differential diagnosis among different types of CPA is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingquan Zhu
- Children's Health Care Department, The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Junfei Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Taizhou Central Hospital, Taizhou, 324110, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingyan Sheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yake Yao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
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Jha D, Kumar U, Meena VP, Sethi P, Singh A, Nischal N, Jorwal P, Vyas S, Singh G, Xess I, Singh UB, Sinha S, Mohan A, Wig N, Kabra SK, Ray A. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis incidence in newly detected pulmonary tuberculosis cases during follow-up. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13747. [PMID: 38782741 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is known to complicate patients with post-tubercular lung disease. However, some evidence suggests that CPA might co-exist in patients with newly-diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis (P.TB) at diagnosis and also develop during therapy. The objective of this study was to confirm the presence of CPA in newly diagnosed P.TB at baseline and at the end-of-TB-therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective longitudinal study included newly diagnosed P.TB patients, followed up at third month and end-of-TB-therapy with symptom assessment, anti-Aspergillus IgG antibody and imaging of chest for diagnosing CPA. RESULTS We recruited 255 patients at baseline out of which 158 (62%) completed their follow-up. Anti-Aspergillus IgG was positive in 11.1% at baseline and 27.8% at end-of-TB-therapy. Overall, proven CPA was diagnosed in 7% at baseline and 14.5% at the end-of-TB-therapy. Around 6% patients had evidence of aspergilloma in CT chest at the end-of-TB-therapy. CONCLUSIONS CPA can be present in newly diagnosed P.TB patients at diagnosis and also develop during anti-tubercular treatment. Patients with persistent symptoms or developing new symptoms during treatment for P.TB should be evaluated for CPA. Whether patients with concomitant P.TB and CPA, while receiving antitubercular therapy, need additional antifungal therapy, needs to be evaluated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhouli Jha
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Umesh Kumar
- Nehru Nagar Chest and TB Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Ved Prakash Meena
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Prayas Sethi
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Amandeep Singh
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neeraj Nischal
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Pankaj Jorwal
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Surabhi Vyas
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Immaculata Xess
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Urvashi B Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev Sinha
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Anant Mohan
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Naveet Wig
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sushil Kumar Kabra
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Animesh Ray
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Evans TJ, Lawal A, Kosmidis C, Denning DW. Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Clinical Presentation and Management. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2024; 45:88-101. [PMID: 38154471 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1776914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) refers to a number of clinical syndromes resulting from the presence and local proliferation of Aspergillus organisms in the lungs of patients with chronic lung disease. CPA is more common than was realized two decades ago. Recognition remains poor, despite recent studies from many countries highlighting the high prevalence in at-risk populations. In low- and middle-income countries, CPA may be misdiagnosed and treated as tuberculosis (TB). In addition, CPA may develop following successful TB treatment. The coronavirus disease pandemic has resulted in significant disruption to provision of TB care, likely leading to more extensive lung damage, which could increase the risk for CPA.Although CPA refers to various syndromes, the classic presentation is that of chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis, which manifests as one or more progressive cavities with or without a fungal ball, accompanied by systemic and respiratory symptoms for at least 3 months. Diagnosis relies on Aspergillus immunoglobulin G in serum, as sputum culture lacks sensitivity. Differential diagnosis includes mycobacterial infection, bacterial lung abscess or necrotizing pneumonia, lung cancer, and endemic fungi.The aim of antifungal treatment in CPA is to improve symptoms and quality of life, and to halt progression, and possibly reverse radiological changes. Current recommendations suggest treatment for 6 months, although in practice many patients remain on long-term treatment. Improvement may manifest as weight gain and improvement of symptoms such as productive cough, hemoptysis, and fatigue. Surgical management should be considered in cases of diagnostic uncertainty, in significant hemoptysis, and when there is concern for lack of response to therapy. Itraconazole and voriconazole are the first-line azoles, with more experience now accumulating with posaconazole and isavuconazole. Side effects are frequent and careful monitoring including therapeutic drug monitoring is essential. Intravenous antifungals such as echinocandins and amphotericin B are used in cases of azole intolerance or resistance, which often develop on treatment. Relapse is seen after completion of antifungal therapy in around 20% of cases, mostly in bilateral, high-burden disease.Several research priorities have been identified, including characterization of immune defects and genetic variants linked to CPA, pathogenetic mechanisms of Aspergillus adaptation in the lung environment, the contribution of non-fumigatus Aspergillus species, and the role of new antifungal agents, immunotherapy, and combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry J Evans
- Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit, Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - AbdulAzeez Lawal
- National Aspergillosis Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Kosmidis
- National Aspergillosis Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - David W Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Tashiro M, Takazono T, Izumikawa K. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: comprehensive insights into epidemiology, treatment, and unresolved challenges. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2024; 11:20499361241253751. [PMID: 38899061 PMCID: PMC11186400 DOI: 10.1177/20499361241253751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a challenging respiratory infection caused by the environmental fungus Aspergillus. CPA has a poor prognosis, with reported 1-year mortality rates ranging from 7% to 32% and 5-year mortality rates ranging from 38% to 52%. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogen, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis, surgery, hemoptysis treatment, pharmacological therapy, and prognosis is essential to manage CPA effectively. In particular, Aspergillus drug resistance and cryptic species pose significant challenges. CPA lacks tissue invasion and has specific features such as aspergilloma. The most critical risk factor for the development of CPA is pulmonary cavitation. Diagnostic approaches vary by CPA subtype, with computed tomography (CT) imaging and Aspergillus IgG antibodies being key. Treatment strategies include surgery, hemoptysis management, and antifungal therapy. Surgery is the curative option. However, reported postoperative mortality rates range from 0% to 5% and complications range from 11% to 63%. Simple aspergilloma generally has a low postoperative mortality rate, making surgery the first choice. Hemoptysis, observed in 50% of CPA patients, is a significant symptom and can be life-threatening. Bronchial artery embolization achieves hemostasis in 64% to 100% of cases, but 50% experience recurrent hemoptysis. The efficacy of antifungal therapy for CPA varies, with itraconazole reported to be 43-76%, voriconazole 32-80%, posaconazole 44-61%, isavuconazole 82.7%, echinocandins 42-77%, and liposomal amphotericin B 52-73%. Combinatorial treatments such as bronchoscopic triazole administration, inhalation, or direct injection of amphotericin B at the site of infection also show efficacy. A treatment duration of more than 6 months is recommended, with better efficacy reported for periods of more than 1 year. In anticipation of improvements in CPA management, ongoing advances in basic and clinical research are expected to contribute to the future of CPA management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masato Tashiro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Takahiro Takazono
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Koichi Izumikawa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
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Ajayababu A, Singh G, Meena VP, Upadhyay AD, Rana B, Sethi P, Prakash B, Singh A, Vyas S, Sinha S, Xess I, Wig N, Kabra SK, Ray A. Effect of volume of instillate on the diagnostic utility of bronchoalveolar lavage galactomannan in patients with suspected chronic pulmonary aspergillosis-A pilot study. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13695. [PMID: 38282361 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) galactomannan (GM) is commonly used to diagnose Aspergillus-related lung diseases. However, unlike serum GM, which is measured in undiluted blood, BAL-GM is estimated using variable aliquots and cumulative volume of instillates during bronchoscopy. OBJECTIVE Since different studies have reported varying diagnostic accuracy and cut-offs for BAL-GM in CPA, we hypothesized that the total volume of instillate and 'order/label' of aliquots significantly affects the BAL-GM values, which was evaluated as part of this study. PATIENTS & METHODS We obtained 250 BAL samples from 50 patients (five from each) with suspected chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. BAL fluid was collected after instilling sequential volumes of 40 mL of normal saline each for the first four labels and a fifth label was prepared by mixing 1 mL from each of the previous labels. The GM level of each label was measured by PLATELIA™ ASPERGILLUS Ag enzyme immunoassay. This study measured the discordance, level of agreement, diagnostic characteristics (sensitivity, specificity and AUROC) and best cut-offs for BAL-GM in the different aliquots of lavage fluid. RESULTS The study population, classified into CPA (28%) and non-CPA (72%) groups, based on ERS/ESCMID criteria (excluding BAL-GM) were not different with respect to clinico-radiological characteristics. The discordance of BAL-GM positivity (using a cut-off of >1) between the serial labels for the same patient ranged between 10% and 22%, while the discordance between classification using BAL-GM positivity (using a cut-off of ≥1) and clinic-radio-microbiological classification ranged between 18% and 30%. The level of agreement for serial labels was at best fair (<0.6 for all except one 'label'). The AUROC for the serial samples ranged between 0.595 and 0.702, with the '40 mL and the 'mix' samples performing the best. The best BAL-GM cut-off also showed significant variation between serial labels of varying dilutions (Range:1.01 - 4.26). INTERPRETATION This study highlights the variation in BAL-GM measured and the 'positivity' between different 'labels' of aliquots of BAL, with the first aliquot and the mixed sample showing the best performances for diagnosis of CPA. Future studies should attempt to 'standardise' the instilled volume for BAL-GM estimation to standardise the diagnostic yield.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Bhaskar Rana
- Department of Microbiology, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | | | - Surabhi Vyas
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Naveet Wig
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Animesh Ray
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
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Bongomin F, Olum R, Kibone W, Namusobya M, van Rhijn N, Denning DW. Prevalence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis along the continuum of pulmonary tuberculosis care: A protocol for a living systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294634. [PMID: 38100446 PMCID: PMC10723662 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a debilitating disease estimated to affect over 3 million people worldwide. Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is the most significant risk factor for CPA. However, the true burden of CPA at the time of PTB diagnosis, during, and after PTB treatment remains unknown. In this paper, we present a protocol for a living systematic review aimed at estimating the current burden of CPA along the continuum of PTB care. MATERIALS AND METHODS We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines to formulate this protocol, which is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42023453900). We will identify primary literature through various electronic databases, including CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE, MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and African Journal Online. The search will encompass articles from inception to December 31st, 2023, using medical subject heading search terms "pulmonary tuberculosis" AND "chronic pulmonary aspergillosis". Two reviewers will independently assess titles, abstracts, and full texts for eligibility using the Covidence web-based software. The eligible studies will comprise original observational research that reports on the prevalence of CPA diagnosed in individuals with PTB, based on established criteria, without language or geographic restriction. We intend to exclude single case reports and case series with fewer than 10 participants, as well as review articles, guidelines, and letters to the editors. Cochrane Risk of Bias Tools (ROB2 and ROBINS-I) will used to assess study quality and risk of bias and the quality of the evidence will be rated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) tool. Our data syntheses will encompass meta-analysis and meta-regression, conducted using STATA version 18 and R- Studio version 4.0.2. This systematic review will be updated every 3-5 years as more data emerges. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this proposed systematic review will summarize the available evidence on the occurrence of CPA, at the time of PTB diagnosis, during and after PTB treatment. The study results have the potential to guide healthcare policies regarding screening for CPA, enhance clinical decision-making, and catalyse further research into understanding the interplay between PTB and CPA. By shedding light on the current burden of CPA along the continuum of PTB care, we aspire to contribute to the betterment of patient care, disease management, and global health outcomes. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42023453900.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Bongomin
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Ronald Olum
- School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Winnie Kibone
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Martha Namusobya
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Norman van Rhijn
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - David W. Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Chowdhury M, Singh G, Pandey M, Mishra H, Meena VP, Sethi P, Singh A, Prakash B, Upadhyay AD, Mohan A, Sinha S, Xess I, Wig N, Kabra SK, Ray A. The Utility of Galactomannan and Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays in Bronchoalveolar Lavage for Diagnosis of Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Mycopathologia 2023; 188:1041-1053. [PMID: 37857979 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00797-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is established by combined clinic-radio-microbiological criteria. Out of the different microbiological criteria, a positive serology for Aspergillus-specific IgG levels is the cornerstone of diagnosis. Alternatively, other microbiological evidence are sometimes sought viz., positive Aspergillus antigen (broncho-alveolar lavage fluid, i.e., BALF galactomannan ≥ 1.0), histopathological demonstration of the fungi following lung biopsy or resection, demonstration of hyaline septate hyphae in direct microscopy resembling Aspergillus spp. or its growth on a respiratory specimen. However, the exact roles of BALF- GM and the newer BALF-PCR have not been confirmed by studies till date. This study enrolled 210 patients with suspected CPA. Of the participants, 88 patients met the criteria for CPA, whereas 122 patients had an alternative diagnosis. The sensitivity-specificity of AsperGenius® PCR and "in-house" PCR were 52.27(36.69-67.54) %-33.78 (23.19-45.72) % and 36.36 (22.41-52.23) %-39.19 (28.04-51.23) % respectively. The sensitivity/specificity of BALF (> 1.0) and serum galactomannan (> 1.0) were 46.55% (33.34-60.13)/64.08% (54.03-73.3) and 29.82% (22.05-37.6)/86.84% (81.1-92.59) respectively. The optimal cut-off values for BALF-Galactomannan and serum galactomannan in diagnosing CPA were found to be 0.69 (sensitivity: 64%; specificity: 53%) and 0.458 (sensitivity: 67%; specificity: 64%) respectively. This results of this study suggests that Aspergillus PCR from BAL may not be a good "rule-in" test for diagnosing CPA. While the performances of GM in BAL and serum may be better than PCR, it should be best used in conjunction with other clinical, radiological, and other microbiological characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Prayas Sethi
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | | | - Bindu Prakash
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Ashish Datt Upadhyay
- Department of Biostatistics (Clinical Research Unit), AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Anant Mohan
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sanjeev Sinha
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | | | - Naveet Wig
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | | | - Animesh Ray
- Department of Medicine, AIIMS, New Delhi, 110029, India.
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Baker J, Denning DW. The SSS revolution in fungal diagnostics: speed, simplicity and sensitivity. Br Med Bull 2023; 147:62-78. [PMID: 37328942 PMCID: PMC10502448 DOI: 10.1093/bmb/ldad011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fungal disease has historically presented a diagnostic challenge due to its often non-specific clinical presentations, relative infrequency and reliance on insensitive and time-intensive fungal culture. SOURCES OF DATA We present the recent developments in fungal diagnostics in the fields of serological and molecular diagnosis for the most clinically relevant pathogens; developments that have the potential to revolutionize fungal diagnosis through improvements in speed, simplicity and sensitivity. We have drawn on a body of evidence including recent studies and reviews demonstrating the effectiveness of antigen and antibody detection and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in patients with and without concurrent human immunodeficiency virus infection. AREAS OF AGREEMENT This includes recently developed fungal lateral flow assays, which have a low cost and operator skill requirement that give them great applicability to low-resource settings. Antigen detection for Cryptococcus, Histoplasma and Aspergillus spp. are much more sensitive than culture. PCR for Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., Mucorales and Pneumocystis jirovecii is more sensitive than culture and usually faster. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY Effort must be made to utilize recent developments in fungal diagnostics in clinical settings outside of specialist centres and integrate their use into standard medical practice. Given the clinical similarities of the conditions and frequent co-infection, further study is required into the use of serological and molecular fungal tests, particularly in patients being treated for tuberculosis. GROWING POINTS Further study is needed to clarify the utility of these tests in low-resource settings confounded by a high prevalence of tuberculosis. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH The diagnostic utility of these tests may require revision of laboratory work flows, care pathways and clinical and lab coordination, especially for any facility caring for the immunosuppressed, critically ill or those with chronic chest conditions, in whom fungal disease is common and underappreciated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Baker
- Department of Medicine, Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals Trust, Mytton Oak Rd, Shrewsbury SY3 8XQ, UK
| | - David W Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Global Action For Fungal Infections (GAFFI), Rue Le Corbusier 1208 Geneva, Switzerland
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Zhu RS, Zhou LH, Cheng JH, Luo Y, Qiu WJ, Huang JT, Jiang YK, Zhao HZ, Wang X, Chen ZQ, Zhu LP. Diagnostic Laboratory Features and Performance of an Aspergillus IgG Lateral Flow Assay in a Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis Cohort. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0026423. [PMID: 37125929 PMCID: PMC10269518 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00264-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a chronic and progressive fungal disease with high morbidity and mortality. Avoiding diagnostic delay and misdiagnosis are concerns for CPA patients. However, diagnostic practice is poorly evaluated, especially in resource-constrained areas where Aspergillus antibody testing tools are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic laboratory findings in a retrospective CPA cohort and to evaluate the performance of a novel Aspergillus IgG lateral flow assay (LFA; Era Biology, Tianjin, China). During January 2016 and December 2021, suspected CPA patients were screened at the Center for Infectious Diseases at Huashan Hospital. A total of 126 CPA patients were enrolled. Aspergillus IgG was positive in 72.1% with chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis, 75.0% with chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis, 41.7% with simple aspergilloma, and 30.3% with Aspergillus nodule(s). The cavitary CPA subtypes had significantly higher levels of Aspergillus IgG. Aspergillus IgG was negative in 52 patients, who were finally diagnosed by histopathology, respiratory culture, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Sputum culture was positive in 39.3% (42/107) of patients and Aspergillus fumigatus was the most common species (69.0%, 29/42). For CPA cohort versus controls, the sensitivity and specificity of the LFA were 55.6% and 92.7%, respectively. In a subgroup analysis, the LFA was highly sensitive for A. fumigatus-associated chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA; 96.2%, 26/27). Given the complexity of the disease, a combination of serological and non-serological tests should be considered to avoid misdiagnosis of CPA. The novel LFA has a satisfactory performance and allows earlier screening and diagnosis of CPA patients. IMPORTANCE There are concerns on avoiding diagnostic delay and misdiagnosis for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis due to its high morbidity and mortality. A proportion of CPA patients test negative for Aspergillus IgG. An optimal diagnostic strategy for CPA requires in-depth investigation based on real-world diagnostic practice, which has been rarely discussed. We summarized the clinical and diagnostic laboratory findings of 126 CPA patients with various CPA subtypes. Aspergillus IgG was the most sensitive test for diagnosing CPA. However, it was negative in 52 patients, who were finally diagnosed by non-serological tests, including biopsy, respiratory culture, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing. We also evaluated a novel Aspergillus IgG lateral flow assay, which showed a satisfactory performance in cavitary CPA patients and was highly specific to Aspergillus fumigatus. This study gives a full picture of the diagnostic practice for CPA patients in Chinese context and calls for early diagnosis of CPA with combined approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Sheng Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling-Hong Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Hui Cheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Luo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Jia Qiu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun-Tian Huang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying-Kui Jiang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua-Zhen Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong-Qing Chen
- Department of Pathology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Ping Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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10
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White PL. Developments in Fungal Serology. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2023; 17:1-12. [PMID: 37360856 PMCID: PMC10099008 DOI: 10.1007/s12281-023-00462-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The true incidence of fungal disease is hampered by conventionally poor diagnostic tests, limited access to advanced diagnostics, and limited surveillance. The availability of serological testing has been available for over two decades and generally underpins the modern diagnosis of the most common forms of fungal disease. This review will focus on technical developments of serological tests for the diagnosis of fungal disease, describing advances in clinical performance when available. Recent Findings Despite their longevity, technical, clinical, and performance limitations remain, and tests specific for fungal pathogens outside the main pathogens are lacking. The availability of LFA and automated systems, capable of running multiple different tests, represents significant developments, but clinical performance data is variable and limited. Summary Fungal serology has significantly advanced the diagnosis of the main fungal infections, with LFA availability increasing accessibility to testing. Combination testing has the potential to overcome performance limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Lewis White
- Public Health Wales Mycology Reference Laboratory and Cardiff University Centre for Trials Research/Division of Infection and Immunity, UHW, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XW UK
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11
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Ocansey BK, Otoo B, Adjei A, Gbadamosi H, Kotey FCN, Kosmidis C, Afriyie-Mensah JS, Denning DW, Opintan JA. Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis is Common among Patients with Presumed Tuberculosis Relapse in Ghana. Med Mycol 2022; 60:6661426. [PMID: 35953428 PMCID: PMC9462665 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) may mimic pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). The two diseases are clinically indistinguishable and may result in CPA misdiagnosed as PTB or vice versa. Although PTB is largely recognised as a differential diagnosis of CPA and often ruled out prior to CPA diagnosis, the reverse is uncommon. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of CPA cases among patients being assessed for PTB. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among consecutive patients referred for GeneXpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis test for the diagnosis of PTB at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana. Patients’ demographics, clinical and socioeconomic details were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Blood was collected for Aspergillus and HIV serology, and sputum samples obtained for Aspergillus culture. Chest radiograph was obtained, and computed tomography scan was also done for patients with positive Aspergillus serology or cavitation. CPA was defined using an algorithm developed by the Global Action for Fungal Infections (GAFFI) international expert panel. A total of 154 patients were included in the analysis, of whom 134 (87%) did not have a prior PTB diagnosis. There were 41 (26.6%) GeneXpert positive cases. CPA prevalence was 9.7% overall, but 50% in patients with a prior history of PTB and 3.7% in those without previous PTB. Although CPA is rarely considered as a differential diagnosis of PTB in Ghana, our findings show that CPA may affect half of patients being assessed for PTB relapse. Efforts to diagnose CPA should be prioritised in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright K Ocansey
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Abraham Adjei
- Chest Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Fleischer C N Kotey
- FleRhoLife Research Consult, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Chris Kosmidis
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.,National Aspergillosis Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Jane S Afriyie-Mensah
- Chest Diseases Unit, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - David W Denning
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Japheth A Opintan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
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