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Mouldy houses influence symptoms of asthma among atopic individuals

S Dharmage1, M Bailey, J Raven

  • 1Department of Public Health, School of Population Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia. s.dharmage@unimelb.edu.au

Clinical and Experimental Allergy : Journal of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|May 8, 2002
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Visible mould in homes significantly worsens asthma symptoms and peak flow variability in sensitized individuals, regardless of season or medication. Indoor fungal levels did not directly correlate with asthma severity.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Allergy and Immunology
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • The impact of indoor fungi on asthma remains debated, necessitating clearer guidance for patients.
  • Understanding seasonal variations in indoor fungi is crucial for managing asthma.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate seasonal changes in indoor fungal exposure.
  • To determine the effect of indoor fungal levels on asthma control in sensitized individuals.

Main Methods:

  • Thirty-five adults with asthma and fungal sensitization were studied over one year.
  • Home visits included questionnaires, dust/air sampling (fungi, Der p 1), and symptom/medication tracking.
  • Peak expiratory flow variability (PFV) was assessed alongside fungal and allergen measurements.

Main Results:

  • Significant seasonal variations were found in airborne fungi, dust ergosterol, and PFV.
  • PFV correlated with symptoms, medication use, smoking, and visible mould.
  • Visible mould showed an independent adverse effect on PFV; total fungi/ergosterol did not.

Conclusions:

  • Mouldy homes negatively impact asthma control in individuals sensitized to fungi.
  • Visible mould is a key environmental factor exacerbating asthma in this population.

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