ABPA (Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis )

[ks1966]

Hi everyone. I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis 5 years ago. My ABPA results are positive, It seems I was exposed to Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). Any thoughts on treatment solutions would be appreciated.

[peege]

Hi ks, can I ask if you had a ct scan to diagnose your bronch? Could it have been APBA ?

I recall one our bronch members recently mentioned that she'd had APBA and it was now gone.

When I was being investigated for APBA my GP told me that it's managed with anti-fungals. (I don't have bronch or aspergillosis even though sputum tests were positive for the latter). Good luck to you and best wishes, Peeg

[peege]

I've taken the liberty of copying the below quote from our member Flibberti

"This website explains all about aspergillus aspergillus.org.uk/ The usual type which asthmatics have (about 5% of us I believe) is ABPA - allergic broncho-pulmonary aspergillosis. This is more of an allergy than an infection. It's non-invasive, but causes a great deal of inflammation and potentially damages the lungs. It is often controlled with oral steroids and an anti-fungal such as itraconazole (brand name Sporanox). ABPA is diagnosed by a massive increase in the inflammatory markers (IgE) in the blood eg mine increased from about 40 to around 11,000. ABPA makes asthma harder to control but once you're on the anti-fungals you'll feel a lot better. I stayed on them for about 5yrs and gradually the ABPA receded and my IgE levels are now normal.

Invasive aspergillosis/aspergilloma is characterised by the presence of a fungal ball in the lungs, sometimes as the result of long-term damage eg tuberculosis. It is harder to treat and has more potential for complications. The website is really good and explains it all, but I recommend you only read about the type of aspergillosis you have as it can be a bit scary. Actually there is a support group here on HU healthunlocked.com/fungalin..."

[ks1966]

Hi peeg. Thank you so much for your feedback. Yes my bronch was diagnosed with a ct. I did a blood test last week. My ige was 900 and they tested for abpa results. I can't make any sense of them . Would appreciate your help

NOTE:

Aspergillus mix IgE (MX4:m3, m36, m207, m228):

Result: <0.10 kU/l class 0 No specific IgE detected.

Aspergillus fumigatus IgG:EIA

Result: <50 U/ml Reference range: <50

Aspergillus fumigatus IgM:EIA

Result: 112 U/ml Reference range: <50

Reference on acute infection.

Aspergillus abs:

Result: 1:160 Reference range: Not detectable <1:80

Abs against A. niger, A, nidulans, A.terreus and A.flavus can be detected by

this technique. Ab titer against aspergillus species slightly increased.

This finding is not a proof for a systemic dissemination of Aspergillus.____________________________

[6-8 Yrs up to 100]

[> 8 Yrs up to 150]

6666 Referred Test See Notes

___________________________

[peege]

Oh crumbs, I'm so sorry I haven't a clue. I'm sure someone will come along soon who can.

DI you have a look at the links? Alternatively you could ring the BLF helpline, they have medical experts at the end of the phone - 03000 030 555, cost of a local call and office hours.

Also, scroll down and have a look at the 'Read Next' box, there are some old APBA posts. Good luck ks xx

[mustcarryon]

I have bronchiectasis. I take Spiriva and atrovent. One of the problem's we broncie's have is chest infections, at the drop of a hat we can pick one up, and it can take us a long time to recover from them. I also have no tolerance to steam, smoke, dust, perfumes and the worst one is the summer heat. You may have no problems with these things, everybody is different. The best thing is a healthy diet, always keep rescue antibiotics in case you come down with an infection. Good luck.