Etymed
aspergillosis
Definition
A fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species, characterized by the formation of fungal masses in tissues
Clinical context
A 65-year-old immunocompromised patient presents with progressive dyspnea and hemoptysis. Chest imaging reveals a pulmonary mass with a 'air crescent' sign. Sputum culture grows grayish-black septate hyphae on microscopy. The patient is diagnosed with aspergillosis secondary to invasive pulmonary infection.
Mnemonic
ASPERGILLUS - Air Crescent, Pulmonary Mass, Gray Hyphae, Immunosuppressed Patients
These morphemes also unlock…
- aspergill/o — to sprinkle; spore
- osis — abnormal condition