Molecular Epidemiology of Aspergillus Species Isolated From Individuals With Suspected Case of Pulmonary Tuberculosis In Adamawa State, Nigeria

Aspergillus is an opportunistic pathogen with varying disease diversity, and those with underlying issues are more likely to become infected. In sub-Saharan Africa, it is among the pathogens reported from people with respiratory illness in the early case series and negative acid-fast bacillus sputum smears. This study aimed at the molecular epidemiology of aspergillus species isolated from individuals with suspected cases of pulmonary tuberculosis in Adamawa, Nigeria. A total of 425 early morning sputum from patients attending seven selected tuberculosis clinics using a standard guideline were collected. The specimens underwent bacteriological, mycological, and molecular analysis for species characterization and antifungal susceptibility patterns. The prevalence of fungal species among presumptive tuberculosis patients was 39.8%, and males (57.4%) were significantly affected. The risk of infection is significantly related to older age and habits such as smoking and alcoholism. A. flavus is the highest of the fungi recovered at 7.51%, followed by A. niger (4.23%). Itraconazole, voriconazole, and caspofungin expressed excellent in vitro activity against the twelve species tested, and amphotericin B showed 3% resistance to non-wild type A. flavus and A. fumigatus. This outcome can represent epidemiological data to provide insights into the prevalence and susceptibility profiles of the pathogens. The species identification of the Aspergillus in the region provided accurate and relevant information to guide treatment decisions and develop strategies to prevent the emergence of resistance.