Aspergillus Species Overview
The genus Aspergillus contains approximately 180 to 250 species, representing a diverse group of filamentous fungi found globally in various environments.Clinical Significance
Pathogenic Species
Only a small subset of Aspergillus species are known to cause human infections:- Approximately 40 species have been identified as potentially pathogenic
- Three primary species responsible for most invasive aspergillosis cases:
- Aspergillus fumigatus
- Aspergillus flavus
- Aspergillus terreus
Additional Clinically Relevant Species
Other species occasionally associated with human disease include:- A. nidulans
- A. niger
- A. ustus
- A. amstelodami
- A. avenaceus
- A. candidus
- A. carneus
- A. clavatus
- A. oryzae
- A. versicolor
Environmental Characteristics
- Ubiquitous in soil, plants, and air conditioning systems
- Most species are harmless to humans
- Increased risk for immunocompromised individuals and those with pre-existing lung conditions
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