Sensitization to Aspergillus fumigatus and functional outcome of asthma - 09/10/09

Introduction Despite its high prevalence in the asthmatic population, sensitization to Aspergillus has not benefited from as much research interest as other mould species. This study aims at investigating the role of the presence or the absence of Aspergillus sensitization in the deterioration of airway calibre in asthmatics over a five-year follow-up period.

Material and methods One hundred and thirty-three asthmatic subjects aged 18 to 40 years were separated into two groups: those sensitized (cases) and those not sensitized (controls) to Aspergillus were matched according to the following criteria: age, gender and FEV₁ (% pred). Clinical, functional, allergic and therapeutic parameters were studied.

Results The FEV₁ slope was less pronounced in the group sensitized to Aspergillus (-17 ml/year) in comparison to the controls (–27mL/year). There was also a less noticeable slope of forced vital capacity in the sensitized subjects (-25 ml/year) as compared to the controls (-28 ml/year). None of these differences were statistically significant.

Conclusion We did not find any increase in the decline in FEV₁ or FVC associated with sensitization to Aspergillus.