A 25 year old man with chronic granulomatous disease developed hepatic abscesses due to Staphylococcus aureus, which were successfully treated with antimicrobials and gamma interferon. After a near drowning accident, he suffered irreversible lung damage and underwent lung transplantation. When the explanted lungs were examined, extensive abscess formation and invasive aspergillosis (Aspergillus fumigatus) was noted. Liposomal amphotericin B was administered intravenously. Cyclosporine, azathioprine and prednisone were administered to prevent rejection of the graft. Three weeks after transplantation, he developed seizures ; a CT of the brain demonstrated multiple brain abscesses. Despite high doses of amphotericin B, the patient expired.

1. What host defense abnormality made him vulnerable to staphylococcal and aspergillus infections? 
2. What is the epidemiology of Aspergillosis ? 
3. What are virulence characteristics of Aspergillus species? 
4. Who is suceptible to aspergillus infections?
5. What are the clinical syndromes produced by aspergillus infection?
6. What is the utility of cultures in the diagnosis of Aspergillosis? 
7. What is the treatment of choice for aspergillosis?