PCR for Aspergillus Fumigatus in Blood and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Monitoring Cases of Invasive Aspergillosis: What is Its Prognostic Value

PCR for Aspergillus Fumigatus in Blood and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Monitoring Cases of Invasive Aspergillosis: What is Its Prognostic Value

Aspergillus fumigatus PCR is currently used in conjunction with serum galactomannan to support the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis or for monitoring at-risk patients not receiving antifungal prophylaxis. A positive result and a high titer are thought to be associated with the advanced stage of the disease and the fungal load. However, there is limited data on this subject, and no study has primarily focused on the variation of PCR levels during treatment and its potential correlation with treatment efficacy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients aged 18 years or older
• Positive Aspergillus fumigatus PCR on serum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at diagnosis, performed at the Strasbourg University Hospital between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2024.

Exclusion Criteria:

• No subsequent Aspergillus fumigatus PCR (>24h)
• No diagnosis of probable or proven invasive aspergillosis (EORTC/MSGERC 2020 criteria)
• Effective antifungal treatment against Aspergillus initiated before the first PCR
• Death <72h after starting antifungal treatment