Aspergillus fumigatus is very common in our surroundings, producing spores that people inhale. Healthy people rarely get sick from inhaling these spores, but the fungus can cause illness in certain patient groups. These risk groups include patients with chronic lung diseases and patients with a greatly reduced resistance, for example, in the treatment of leukaemia and after bone marrow or organ transplantation. Research by the Radboudumc has shown that when the infection is caused by the resistant form of the fungus, treatment is very difficult since the most commonly used anti-fungal agents, the azoles, no longer work.

Widespread problem

Research has also shown that the most resistant infections are caused by resistant fungi that are already present in our surroundings. It is thought that resistance is caused by the use of anti-fungal agents, such as the azoles, in the environment. Resistant forms of the Aspergillus fungus can be found throughout the Netherlands and in many other countries.

Hotspots

The study that has now started focuses on a better understanding of factors that play a role in the development and spread of the resistant fungus. Initially, it will examine whether there are locations and/or circumstances where the resistant fungus originates from or is most commonly found, so-called 'hotspots'. The nature of the resistance and the presence of fungicides will be investigated at these hotspots.

Ongoing research on infections with resistant Aspergillus in patients will also be continued.