Which organism is commonly associated with aspergillosis?

• A. Candida albicans
• B. Aspergillus fumigatus
• C. Cryptococcus neoformans
• D. Histoplasma capsulatum

Answer: (B)

Aspergillus fumigatus is the organism most commonly linked to aspergillosis. This infection often starts when inhaled spores from this ubiquitous mold reach the lungs or sinuses, especially in people with weakened immune systems or lung disease. Microscopic and culture clues help confirm it: the mold forms septate hyphae that branch at acute angles, a characteristic feature seen under the microscope and on fungal culture. This sets it apart from the other organisms listed, such as a yeast like Candida albicans that causes candidiasis, an encapsulated yeast like Cryptococcus neoformans that can cause meningitis, or Histoplasma capsulatum, which is a dimorphic fungus causing histoplasmosis.