allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, a form of aspergillosis that occurs in asthmatics when the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, growing within the bronchial lumen, causes a type I or type III hypersensitivity reaction. The characteristics of the condition are similar to those of asthma, including dyspnea and wheezing. Chest examination and pulmonary function tests may reveal airway obstruction. Serological tests usually reveal precipitating antibodies to A. fumigatus. Bacteriological and microscopic examination of sputum may reveal A. fumigatus in addition to Charcot-Leyden crystals. Eosinophilia is usually also present. Compare aspergillosis.
