How Do You Spell ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATUS?

1. Aspergillus fumigatus is a species of fungus that belongs to the genus Aspergillus. It is commonly found in the environment and is recognized as one of the most clinically significant species within this genus. The name "Aspergillus" is derived from the Latin word "aspergillum," referring to a device used to sprinkle holy water, due to the fungus's characteristic appearance of conidial heads resembling a sprinkler.

   Aspergillus fumigatus is known to be an opportunistic pathogen, often causing invasive infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying respiratory conditions. It is particularly problematic for individuals with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or those who have undergone organ transplantation. This fungus thrives in various organic matter like decaying vegetation and soil, and it produces a vast number of small, black or greenish conidia that are easily aerosolized.

   Inhaling the airborne conidia of Aspergillus fumigatus can lead to respiratory infections, ranging from mild allergic reactions to severe invasive diseases such as invasive aspergillosis. This infection can affect multiple organ systems in the body, including the lungs, sinuses, and even disseminate to other areas such as the brain or bloodstream. Symptoms may include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, sinusitis, and in severe cases, it can lead to fatal outcomes.

   Given the potential health risks associated with Aspergillus fumigatus, prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment are crucial in managing infections caused by this fungus.

2. A form present in pulmonary aspergillosis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATUS

The term Aspergillus originates from the Latin word aspergillum, which refers to a brush-like instrument used for sprinkling holy water in religious ceremonies. This is because the fungus Aspergillus was first described by Italian priest and biologist Pier Antonio Micheli in the 18th century, who noticed its brush-like morphology resembling an aspergillum.

The specific epithet fumigatus is Latin for smoke-producing or smoky, derived from the verb fumigare, meaning to smoke. This name was given to the fungus due to its characteristic production of spores, which often appear as a cloud of smoke when the fungus grows and reproduces.

Therefore, the term Aspergillus fumigatus can be translated as brush-like fungus that produces smoke or spores.