Laboratory biomarkers in the diagnosis and follow-up of treatment of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), a severe inflammatory respiratory disease, is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction to the colonization of the airways with Aspergillus fumigatus. It is most often described in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis. The diagnosis of ABPA is based on a combination of clinical, radiological, and immunological findings that have been included in different diagnostic criteria over the years. In this paper, we review the biomarkers included in these diagnostic criteria and novel research biomarkers that may be used in the diagnosis and treatment follow-up of ABPA in cystic fibrosis.

Keywords: Laboratory medicine; allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis; biomarkers; cystic fibrosis.