Mold - The Underlying Science

Micotoxins
Molds can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Some mycotoxins cling to surfaces of mold spores; others can be found within spores. More than 200 mycotoxins have been identified from common molds, and many more remain to be identified. Some of the molds that are known to produce mycotoxins are commonly found in moisture-damaged homes. Exposure pathways for mycotoxins can include inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Although some mycotoxins are well known to affect humans and have been shown to be responsible for human health effects, for many mycotoxins, little information is available.

Aflatoxin B1 is perhaps the most well known and studied mycotoxin. It can be produced by molds Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and is one of the most potent carcinogens known. Ingestion of aflatonin B1 can cause liver cancer. There is also some evidence that inhalation of aflatoxin B1 can cause lung cancer. Aflatoxin B1 has been found on contaminated grains, peanuts, and other human and animal foodstuffs. However, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus are not commonly found on building materials or in indoor environments.

Much of the information on the human health effects of inhalation exposure to mycotoxins comes from the studies done in the workplace and some case studies or case reports. Information on ingestion exposure, for both humans and animals, is more abundant – a wide range of health effects has been reported following ingestion of moldy foods including liver damage, nervous system damage, and immunological effects.

Many symptoms and human health effects attributed to inhalation of mycotoxins have been reported including: mucous membrane irritation, skin rash, nausea, immune system system suppression, acute or chronic liver damage, acute or chronic central nervous system damage, endocrine effects, and cancer. More studies are needed to get a clear picture of the health effects related to most mycotoxins. However it is clearly prudent to avoid exposure to molds and mycotoxins.

Molds such as Aspergillus versicolor and Stachybotrys atra (chartarum) are known to produce potential toxins under certain circumstances. Although some mycotoxins are well known to affect humans and have been shown to be responsible for human health effects, for many mycotoxins, little information is available, and in some cases research is ongoing. For example, some strains of Stachybotrys atra can produce one or more potent toxins. In addition, preliminary reports from the investigation of an outbreak of pulomonary hemorrhage in infants suggested an association between pulmonary hemorrhage and exposure to Stachybotrus chartarum. Review of the evidence of this association at CDC resulted in a published clarification stating that such an association was not established. Research on the causes of pulmonary hemorrhage in infants continues. Comsult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for more information on pulmonary hemorrhage in infants ( www.cdc.gov )

Source: EPA

Spores
Mold spores are microscopic (2-10 um) and are naturally present in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds reproduce by means of spores. Some molds have spores that are easily distributed and waft into the air and settle repeatedly with each disturbance. Other molds have sticky spores that will cling to surfaces and are dislodged by brushing against them or by other direct contact. Spores may remain able to grow for years after they are produced. In addition, whether or not the spores are alive, the allergens in and on them may remain allergenic for years.

Glucans
Glucans are small pieces of cell walls of molds which may cause inflammatory lung and airway reactions. These glucans can affect the immune system when inhaled. Exposure to very high levels of glucans or dust mixtures including glucans may cause a flu-like illness known as Organic Dust Toxic Syndrome (ODTS). This illness has been primarily noted in agricultural and manufacturing settings.

Volatile Organic Compounds (mVOCs)
Some compounds produced by molds are volatile and are released directly into the air. These are known as microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). Because these compounds often have strong and/ or unpleasant odors, they can be the source of odore associated with molds. Exposure to mVOCs from molds has been linked to symptoms such as headaches, nasal irritation, dizziness, fatigue, and nausea. Research on mVOCs is still in the early phase.

Cladosporium (black mold)
A genus of mold which can be found within indoor environments. Cladosporium is the most common of the so-called black molds. It produces a black pigment that protects it from ultraviolet light. This characteristic as well as its growth and dispersal characteristics is likely responsible for its presence and abundance in the environment.

Clinical Information
Certain species of Cladosporium are pathogenic (harmful to human health) and it sometimes causes severe illness to those who are affected. Examples:

• Causes severe infections when it comes in contact with small cuts or abrasions on the skin.
• Prolonged exposure can weaken the immune system allowing opportunistic bacteria and viruses to infect the host.
• It may be linked to some cases of impotence.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC's) are attributed to this mold at certain stages of its existence.
• Airborne molds such as Cladosporium not only cause severe allergies but in large amounts can severely effect asthmatics and persons with other restrictive airway diseases.

If you suspect mold may be a problem in your home, contact Beachwood at 978.853.3134 to schedule a professional mold inspection!