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Allergy and "toxic mold syndrome".
David A Edmondson1, Mark E Nordness, Michael C Zacharisen
1Division of Allergy/Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201, USA. dedmonds@mcw.edu
Summary
This study investigated symptoms in individuals exposed to mold. Allergic responses, not toxic effects, were the primary cause of symptoms in most patients.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Immunology
- Allergy & Asthma
Background:
- Mold exposure is linked to respiratory issues like asthma and allergic rhinitis via IgE mechanisms.
- Molds can also cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis and infections in immunocompromised individuals.
- Mold metabolites may act as irritants, contributing to sick building syndrome and atypical symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize clinical features of patients reporting mold exposure.
- To investigate the potential etiology of symptoms associated with mold exposure.
Main Methods:
- Review of 65 patients presenting with concerns of toxic mold exposure.
- Symptom recording, physical examinations, and allergy testing (skin prick/puncture, intracutaneous).
Main Results:
- Common symptoms included rhinitis (62%), cough (52%), and headache (34%).
- Physical findings included pale nasal mucosa and pharyngeal cobblestoning.
- Over half of patients (53%) showed positive skin reactions to molds.
Conclusions:
- Mold-exposed individuals can exhibit diverse IgE-mediated and non-IgE-mediated symptoms.
- While mycotoxins and irritants are potential factors, allergic responses appear to be the main driver of symptoms.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis of non-IgE mediated symptoms from mold exposure.