health effects (cont.)

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Irritations

Mould byproducts are suspected of causing a wide variety of symptoms, including headaches, migraines, abdominal cramps, sore throats, diarrhea, fatigue, mild depression, bleeding lungs and hair loss. Mould byproducts include:

>>>>> ~ Mycotoxins
>>>>> ~ Antibiotics
>>>>> ~ Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
>>>>> ~ Glucose polymers (found in fungal cell walls)

VOCs produced by fungi are often detectable by their unique musty/earthy odour. Although moulds do not produce mycotoxins and VOCs all the time, the distinct odour is a reasonable indicator of active growth.

Mycotoxins are probably the most studied mould byproduct as it relates to IAQ. One mycotoxin called aflatoxin has been linked to liver cancer (ingestion) and leukemia (inhalation), yet much research, studies and testing are required. Moulds known to produce mycotoxins include:

>>>>> ~ Cladosporium cladosporioides
>>>>> ~ Cladosporium herbarum
>>>>> ~ Alternaria alternata
>>>>> ~ Penicillium brevi compactum
>>>>> ~ Penicillium citrinum
>>>>> ~ Penicillium chrysogenum
>>>>> ~ Penicillium fellutanum
>>>>> ~ Penicillium decumbens
>>>>> ~ Penicillium frequentans
>>>>> ~ Penicillium janthenellum
>>>>> ~ Trichoderma viride
>>>>> ~ Trichoderma harzianum
>>>>> ~ Paecillomyces variotii
>>>>> ~ Aspergillus versicolor
>>>>> ~ Aspergillus niger
>>>>> ~ Aspergillus fumigatus
>>>>> ~ Stachybotrys atra (chartarum)

In Summary –

Buildings with mould amplification problems pose a health risk to occupants
People with compromised immune systems or elevated sensitivities are most at risk.
Moulds can work synergistically with other contaminants to heighten responses.
Reactions are very dependent on the individual.
The presence of a specific mould does not mean it is responsible for the symptoms.
The relationship between dosage, exposure and symptoms is not well understood.

Important to remember:

Air quality and its relationship to human health is a complex issue. Mould is one of many bio-aerosols, such as pollen, animal dander, dust mites, bacteria and viruses that can enter the lungs and trigger a response or infection. To solve air quality problems effectively, we must always consider the bigger picture.

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