Methods for sampling Aspergillus spores in air
Author:
George Morris, Maarit Kokki, Malcolm Richardson
Date: 1 October 1999
Abstract:
Nosocomially-acquired aspergillosis typically occurs in the setting of treatment for leukaemia or other haematological malignancy. As Aspergillus species can be readily found in the environment, it has been widely believed that aspergillosis occurs as a consequence of exogenous acquisition of the fungus. Stringent environmental controls in transplant units have included high-efficacy air filtration, positive-pressure ventilation and frequent room air changes. Although there have been several well-documented examples of aspergillosis outbreaks as a result of hospital demolition and reconstruction, it has not always been possible to demonstrate elevated spore counts in clinical areas during building work. The sampling of air for Aspergillus is very problematic. Careful attention must be given to the design of air sampler, sampling protocols, and an understanding of air sampling data. This review outlines many of the physical and environmental parameters that influence meaningful air sampling, although it not describe comparative studies of air sampling. This article then recommends a simple procedure that has been tried and tested in many aspergillosis outbreaks. The article does not discuss in detail methods of sampling surfaces for Aspergillus spores although in order to fully assess fungal contamination, surface sampling is also recommended.
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