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Penicillium allergic alveolitis: faulty installation of central heating

R J Fergusson, L J Milne, G K Crompton

    Thorax
    |April 1, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    A married couple developed allergic alveolitis due to household mold exposure. Fungal growth of Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium cyclopium in their home was identified as the likely cause, confirmed by antibody tests.

    Area of Science:

    • Environmental microbiology
    • Immunology
    • Pulmonary medicine

    Background:

    • Allergic alveolitis is an immune-mediated lung disease triggered by inhaled antigens.
    • Fungal exposure is a known cause of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, including allergic alveolitis.
    • Previous literature has not documented allergic alveolitis specifically linked to Penicillium chrysogenum or Penicillium cyclopium.

    Observation:

    • A married couple presented with symptoms consistent with allergic alveolitis.
    • Investigation revealed a domestic environmental source: a leaking central heating system causing significant fungal growth on damp flooring.
    • Fungal species, identified as Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium cyclopium, were isolated from the affected areas and air samples.

    Findings:

    • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) confirmed the presence of antibodies against both P. chrysogenum and P. cyclopium in the patients' serum.
    • The clinical presentation and immunological findings strongly implicate these two Penicillium species as the causative agents of allergic alveolitis in this couple.
    • This represents a novel association between these specific fungi and the development of allergic alveolitis.

    Implications:

    • Highlights the potential for common household molds, specifically P. chrysogenum and P. cyclopium, to induce allergic alveolitis.
    • Underscores the importance of thorough environmental investigation in diagnosing hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
    • Suggests the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding less common fungal triggers for allergic alveolitis.

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