Approximately 50% of cystic fibrosis patients are also infected by the Aspergillus fungus, which is caused by an exposure to mold, according to research that may help doctors improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with CF.

Researchers analyzed data from 30 different countries and found that there are over 75,000 people who are both afflicted with CF and who also suffer from an aspergillus fungal infection, with more than half of those patients being over the age of 18.

Aspergillosis causes airway infections, bronchitis, and the ABPA allergy, which starts in childhood and reaches a peak in late teenage years. Treatment involves anti fungal therapy or oral steroids, however, neither treatment has been shown to be very effective, as anti fungal resistance to these treatment types continues to be an issue for clinicians.