Treatment:

A fungus ball is usually not treated (with antifungal medicines) unless there is bleeding into the lung tissue. In that case, surgery is required.

Invasive aspergillosis is treated with several weeks of an antifungal drug called voriconizole. It can be given orally or in an IV (directly into a vein). Amphotericin B, eichinocandins, or itraconazole can also be used.

Endocarditis caused by Aspergillus is treated by surgically removing the infected heart valves. Long-term amphotericin B therapy is also needed.

Antifungal drugs do not help people with allergic aspergillosis. Allergic aspergillosis is treated with immunosuppressive drugs -- most often prednisone taken by mouth.

Expectations (prognosis):

People with allergic aspergillosis usually get better gradually, with treatment. It is common for the disease to come back (relapse) and need repeat treatment.

If invasive aspergillosis does not get better with drug treatment, it eventually leads to death. What happens to a person with invasive aspergillosis also depends on the underlying disease and immune system function.

Complications:

• Amphotericin B can cause kidney impairment and unpleasant side effects such as fever and chills
• Bronchiectasis (permanent scarring of the small sacs in the lungs)
• Invasive lung disease can cause massive bleeding from the lung
• Mucous plugs
• Permanent airway obstruction
• Respiratory failure

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of aspergillosis or if you have a weakened immune system and develop a fever.