Severe Asthma with Fungal Sensitization: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

There is a substantial body of evidence supporting an association between asthma severity and fungal exposure and sensitization. Fungal allergens are a recognized risk factor for severe asthma. We describe the case of a 44-year-old asthmatic whose asthma control deteriorated after moving to a new flat with walls covered in mould. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis was excluded. Although sensitization to Candida was demonstrated by a positive Candida-specific radioallergosorbent test, the patient did not entirely satisfy the criteria for a diagnosis of allergic bronchopulmonary candidiasis. The patient's asthma control improved after engaging in a monthly washing regimen of the walls. This case further demonstrates the association between fungal sensitization and asthma severity. The term severe asthma with fungal sensitization has been recently coined to describe this phenomenon.

Keywords :

• asthma
• allergy
• fungi
• Candida albicans
• allergic bronchopulmonary

Acknowledgment

With thanks to Stephen Durham who kindly reviewed the paper.