Being diagnosed with aspergillosis can feel confusing or worrying, especially if you have never heard of the condition before. Many people experience uncertainty at first. The aim of this page is to explain what usually happens after diagnosis and to guide you to helpful information.
Key Points
- Aspergillosis includes several different conditions.
- Diagnosis often involves several tests rather than one single result.
- Treatment depends on the type of aspergillosis.
- Some people need long-term monitoring.
- Support from specialist teams and patient communities can be very helpful.
How Is Aspergillosis Diagnosed?
Doctors usually combine several types of information to diagnose aspergillosis. No single test is usually enough on its own.
Tests may include:
- CT scans or chest X-rays
- blood tests
- sputum tests
- breathing tests
- review of symptoms and medical history
Sometimes diagnosis takes time because the results need to be considered together.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
Your doctor will determine which type of aspergillosis you have. The treatment plan depends on this.
The most common forms include:
- Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)
- Severe Asthma with Fungal Sensitisation (SAFS)
- Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA)
- Aspergillus bronchitis
Learn more about the different types →
What Treatments Might Be Used?
Treatment depends on the type of aspergillosis and the severity of symptoms.
Possible treatments include:
- antifungal medicines
- steroids or anti-inflammatory medicines
- biologic medicines for severe asthma
- monitoring with scans and blood tests
Some people need treatment for only a period of time, while others may require longer-term monitoring or therapy.
Specialist Care
Because aspergillosis is relatively uncommon, many patients benefit from assessment or advice from specialists with experience in fungal lung disease.
Specialist centres may provide advice to your local doctor or become directly involved in your care depending on your situation.
Living with Aspergillosis
People with aspergillosis often need support with symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, or managing long-term treatment.
Helpful topics include:
- energy management
- exercise and breathlessness
- nutrition
- mental health and coping
Learn more about living with aspergillosis →
Support and Community
Many patients find it helpful to speak with others who have similar experiences.
Patient meetings and online communities provide an opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from others.
Find out about patient support meetings →
Common Questions
Is aspergillosis dangerous?
The impact varies depending on the type of aspergillosis and the health of the person affected. Many people live with the condition for years with appropriate treatment and monitoring.
Will I need treatment forever?
Some people need treatment for a period of time, while others require longer-term monitoring or therapy.
Why did it take time to diagnose?
Symptoms of aspergillosis can overlap with other lung conditions, which sometimes makes diagnosis more complex.
Where to Go Next
- What is Aspergillosis?
- Which Type of Aspergillosis Do I Have?
- How Aspergillosis Is Diagnosed
- Treatment and Management
- Search the Knowledge Hub
Last reviewed: March 2026