Wright's stain, 500x

 Aspergillosis affects many animal species including people, and can be found in localized (generally in the upper airways) and disseminated forms (in patients suffering from immunosuppresion). Occasionally, the para-nasal sinuses or gastro-intestinal tract can be a site of infection. Aspergillus fumigatus is a branched and segmented fungus which is morphologically similar to Penicillium sp. Infections with Penicillium sp. are much less frequent. These microorganisms can be differentiated by the appearance of the conidia they produce. A diagnosis can be made based on results from cytology, culture, and/or serology.