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Risk factors and mechanisms that predispose to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA
Risk factors and mechanisms that predispose to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA
Silvia Guzmán-Beltrán 1 
, Dora P. Rosete-Olvera 2 , Gabriel Palma-Cortés 2 , Carlos Cabello-Gutiérrez 2
1 Departamento de Investigación en Microbiología, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Ciudad de México, México; 2 Departamento de Investigación en Virología y Micología. Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Ciudad de México, México
*Correspondence: Dora P. Rosete-Olvera. Email: dorosete67@yahoo.com.mx
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a virus that causes respiratory infection and leads to the development of COVID-19. This virus triggered the 2019 pandemic, resulting in millions of deaths worldwide. Coinfection with the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus leads to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), a complication characterized by high morbidity and mortality. Risk factors are diverse and increase the likelihood of developing severe disease and death. The aim of this review is to describe the various risk factors and pathophysiological conditions induced by SARS-CoV-2 that facilitate fungal invasion. The virulence mechanisms of A. fumigatus that exacerbate lung damage during coinfection are also described. In addition, current limitations in diagnosis and treatment are discussed. Based on the information presented, further research is necessary to identify biomarkers and effective therapeutic strategies to reduce mortality associated with CAPA.
Keywords: SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19. CAPA. Aspergillus fumigatus.
