Abstract

Aspergillus spp. is frequently isolated in respiratory samples from patients with severe
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; however, the clinical significance of this mold is
unclear and its presence may indicate temporary passage, benign chronic carriage, or onset of
invasive disease. This hospital based cross-sectional observational study was carried out at
the Department of TB and Chest, Index Medical College, Indore (M.P.). Detection of
Aspergillus species was done using culture and Polymerase Chain Reaction. Sensitivity,
specificity, of 10.0% KOH, and culture findings against PCR was found to be 68.7%, 95.1%
respectively for KOH and 72.9% and 100.0% respectively for culture test. Species detection
in nested PCR was A. niger (2.0%), A.fumigatus (11.3%) and A.flavus (10.0%). This shows
more species specificity of PCR. Aspergillusfumigatus was the most dominant molds isolated
from sputum in aspergillosis patients. Molecular methods are more sensitive and specific
methods. It gives results for detection and speciation in short time which helps early
diagnosis and treatment of patient.