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Collection and Extraction of Occupational Air Samples for Analysis of Fungal DNA
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Toxic mold: phantom risk vs science

Jean A Chapman1, Abba I Terr, Robert L Jacobs

  • 1University of California Medical Center, San Francisco, California, USA. jachapmn@swbellnet

Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology : Official Publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
|October 10, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Fungal contamination in buildings can cause irritation, allergies, or infections. However, building-related illness from mycotoxicosis remains unproven, emphasizing prompt remediation of water-damaged areas.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Mycology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Fungi, commonly known as molds, are ubiquitous in indoor environments.
  • Concerns exist regarding their potential health impacts, necessitating a scientific review of available data.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically review the scientific literature on fungi (molds) and their health effects.
  • To differentiate scientifically validated information from unproved and controversial claims regarding mold-related illnesses.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature review synthesizing existing research on toxic mold issues.
  • Inclusion of authors' clinical experience with patients reporting mold-related illnesses.
  • Critical appraisal of pertinent scientific investigations and previously published reviews.

Main Results:

  • Indoor mold presence does not automatically imply occupant exposure.
  • Antibodies (IgE or IgG) indicate fungal exposure but not necessarily illness.
  • Mold-related diseases are categorized into noncontroversial (irritation, allergy, infection) and controversial (mycotoxicosis) disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Mold-related symptoms are typically transient irritation, allergy, or infection.
  • No definitive proof of building-related illness due to mycotoxicosis exists in medical literature.
  • Immediate remediation of water damage and infrastructure repair are the recommended primary responses to fungal contamination.

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