Aspergillus is a fungus that is found in soil. It is rarely identified in the general population and is most commonly diagnosed in immune-compromised patients. Aspergillus grows and destroys tissue. The fungus can also invade the bloodstream and move into the brain and kidneys causing kidney and liver failure. Symptoms include fever, chills, coughing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, night sweats and sinus pain.
Symptoms provide the strongest clues for diagnosis.
The incubation period is unknown, but it can take days for the fungus to grow and symptoms to appear. Despite the use of antifungal drugs like amphotericin B, fungal infections have caused a high rate of illness and deaths. Bleeding is a potential problem, especially in the first few weeks after transplant. During this time the patient's platelet counts are low. Nosebleeds and bleeding gums can be frequent.