Management of allergic aspergillosis

Abstract

Treatment of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis depends on accurate diagnosis, which is difficult because of multiple clinical, radiographic, and immunologic criteria; unstandardized immunoassays; and its similarity to cystic fibrosis. Advances in chest CT interpretation, measuring serum Aspergillus fumigatus-specific antibodies and the T-helper type 2 chemokine thymus-activated-and-regulated chemokine, recognizing risk factors, should improve diagnostic accuracy. Oral glucocorticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment. Dose regimen and duration are not standardized, so expert recommendations are used. Inhaled steroids have not been proven to be effective. Due to relapse and toxicity, itraconazole has been added as second-tier therapy, supported by randomized, placebo-controlled trials in asthma and open-label trials in cystic fibrosis. Itraconazole is steroid sparing with anti-inflammatory aspects and poor bioavailability. Despite combination steroid-itraconazole therapy, relapses and steroid toxicity have led to open-label use of voriconazole, nebulized amphotericin B, monthly high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone, and omalizumab. Controlled trials are needed to evaluate these and other antifungal or immunomodulatory interventions.