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MOLD:
Toxic Mold-Related Illnesses
Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, Pennicillium and Fusarium are mold species commonly found indoors. All are capable of producing mycotoxins, which can affect virtually anyone exposed to them. Potential reactions consist of immune disorders, pathogenic disease and cancer. Mycotoxins, produced by Stachybotrys or black mold, have been linked to a number of health problems including pulmonary hemorrhaging. As molds grow they produce metabolic gasses called MVOCs (microbial volatile organic compounds). MVOC gasses 3-octanone and 3-methyl-1-butanol produce the characteristic musty smell associated with mold. The health effects of MVOCs are largely unknown at this time. Aspergillus species A.parasitis and A.fumigatus also produce aflotoxins. Aflotoxins have been identified as acutely toxic to the liver, brains, kidney and heart, and possibly carcinogenic (cancer causing) to the liver. All species are fairly prevalent in buildings. Some Stachybotrys and Fusarium species can also produce marcocyclic trichothecenes. The most serious health effects of mold toxicity are often found in young children, the elderly and those afflicted with respiratory illnesses..
In severe situations, individuals with immune system-related diseases, such as leukemia or HIV, Aspergillosis is often fatal (a disease related to Aspergillus infections).
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