Health effects of indoor fungi

To review the nontoxic harmful effects that poor indoor air quality caused by fungi can have on health.

We searched PubMed for publications related to the various topics discussed in this review, and we relied on our knowledge of the field.

Where more than one publication was relevant, we attempted to identify a consensus of the reports and cited the most relevant articles. Priority was given to randomized controlled trials and expert reports when available, although much of the information herein relates to laboratory research.

Actively growing fungal colonies can release volatile substances that have an unpleasant smell, leading to psychological responses in the occupants such as fatigue and nausea. Symptoms that are likely caused by indoor fungi include respiratory complaints that involve the nose and lungs, eye symptoms, and mucous membrane irritation. These adverse effects can occur by a variety of mechanisms, including IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, fungal infection, irritant reaction to spores or fungal metabolites, and possibly toxic reaction to mycotoxins.

Reduced fungal exposure can reasonably be expected to improve health. Removal of moisture from the indoors and proper maintenance of air filters can aid in prevention and elimination of fungi from the home environment. Small areas of present contamination can be cleaned with a dilute bleach solution, which kills viable colonies and removes their mycelia. If fungal contamination is not addressed early, substantial damage can occur, requiring professional remediation. Above all, the individual should not panic at the first sight of fungi growing in the home. Regular inspection and cleaning can prevent many fungus-related problems.