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Epidemics of mold poisoning past and present

William J Meggs1

  • 1Division of Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. meggsw@ecu.edu

Toxicology and Industrial Health
|October 8, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Toxic mold exposure can cause serious health issues, including historical epidemics like ergotism and aflatoxin outbreaks. Modern buildings may also harbor toxic molds, potentially causing widespread health effects.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Mycology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Molds are widespread and cause infectious, allergic, and toxic diseases.
  • Mycotoxins produced by molds are responsible for toxic diseases and historical epidemics.
  • Contemporary construction and indoor moisture contribute to mold contamination in buildings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review prominent historical mycotoxin-associated epidemics.
  • To discuss the nature of mycotoxins and their effects.
  • To explore the potential link between toxic mold exposure and historical diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of historical epidemics and mycotoxin-related illnesses.
  • Analysis of the mechanisms of action of mycotoxins.
  • Examination of case studies including ergotism, aflatoxin outbreaks, and Stachybotrys chartarum contamination.

Main Results:

  • Historical epidemics of ergotism (Claviceps) and aflatoxin outbreaks (Aspergillus) are linked to mycotoxin consumption.
  • Indoor mold contamination, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, presents ongoing health concerns.
  • Two historical childhood diseases in England may have been toxic mold epidemics.

Conclusions:

  • Mycotoxin exposure has historically caused significant toxic epidemics.
  • Understanding mold-related toxins is crucial for public health.
  • Further research is needed to fully ascertain the health impacts of indoor mold exposure.

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