Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.
Authors
1
Department of Histopathology, College of Medicine, University of Dhi Qar, Iraq
2
Department of Anesthesia Techniques, Al-Taff University College, Karbala , Iraq
3
Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Alnisour university, baghdad , Iraq
4
Department of Pathological Analysis, Thi-Qar Health Directorate, Al- Habbobi Teaching Hospital
Abstract
Background: Aspergillus fumigatus is an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for pulmonary infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the impact of A. fumigatus on cytokine release and biomarker profiles in pulmonary infections, and to elucidate the mechanisms underlying pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy. Methodology: A case-control study was conducted at Al-Habboubi Teaching Hospital from January to October 2024, including 150 participants: 100 patients with lung inflammation and 50 healthy controls, aged 30–40 years. Blood samples were collected to measure serum levels of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10) and biomarkers (SP-D, YKL-40, MMP-9, calprotectin, galectin-3) using ELISA. Lung tissue samples underwent histological examination for inflammatory cell infiltration, fungal hyphae presence, alveolar damage, and fibrosis via H&E and Masson’s Trichrome staining. Results: There were no significant differences in age or gender between patients and controls. However, patients exhibited higher BMI (p = 0.001), higher smoking rates (p = 0.047), and increased prevalence of diabetes and hypertension (p = 0.024 and p = 0.031, respectively). Blood oxygenation decreased and respiratory rate increased significantly in patients (p = 0.001). Levels of cytokines and biomarkers—IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-10, SP-D, YKL-40, MMP-9, calprotectin, and galectin-3—were significantly elevated (p < 0.001). Lung tissue analysis revealed severe inflammation, fungal hyphae, alveolar damage, and fibrosis, findings absent in control samples. Conclusions: A. fumigatus infections provoke a strong immune and inflammatory response, resulting in significant lung tissue damage. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and targeted therapeutic strategies.
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