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Emission exposure model for the transport of toxic mold

M.Y. Menetrez, K.K. Foarde2004Indoor and Built EnvironmentJournal Article
10.1177/1420326x04041038
CardiovascularEndocrine (ADH/ACTH/MSH)GastrointestinalHypothalamic-PituitaryImmune/InnateMusculoskeletalNeurologicalOcularRespiratory/Sinus
Bacterial EndotoxinsIndoor Mold (Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, etc.)MycotoxinsVolatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)Water-Damaged Buildings (WDB)

Abstract

Biocontaminants such as mold spores are capable of being released into the indoor air from the site of growth and being transported in a viable or non-viable form. Exposure to toxic mold and the mycotoxins contained in the spore and vegetative body have been shown to produce adverse health effects following inhalation, ingestion and dermal contact. This paper presents the results of a study of the release of Stachybotrys chartarum spores from contaminated gypsum wallboard and of tests on the effects of environmental conditions on the release of viable and non-viable spores and fragments. The findings of S. chartarum spore emissions with low air velocity flow conditions were found to be directly proportional to airflow and indirectly proportional to relative humidity. These emission findings corroborate previous observations involving Penicillium and Aspergillus. The viability of S. chartarum spore emissions is also discussed with respect to culturable and commonly used field measurement techniques.

Key Biomarkers

Alpha Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (MSH)Immunoglobulin E (IgE)LeptinMatrix Metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9)Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS)

Symptom Clusters

FatigueHeadache and light sensitivityMetabolic: excessive thirst, frequent urination, appetite swingsMood swingsMuscle and joint painNeurological: memory loss, concentration difficulty, confusion, word-finding difficultySinus congestion and respiratory symptomsSleep disturbance and night sweatsTingling in extremitiesVisual disturbances

Cited By (2)

  • Sick building syndrome (SBS) and exposure to water-damaged buildings: Time series study, clinical trial and mechanismsNeurotoxicology and Teratology · 2006
  • A time-series study of sick building syndrome: chronic, biotoxin-associated illness from exposure to water-damaged buildingsNeurotoxicology and Teratology · 2005

References (4)

  • Stachylysin May Be a Cause of Hemorrhaging in Humans Exposed to Stachybotrys chartarumInfection and Immunity · 2002
  • Trichothecene mycotoxins in aerosolized conidia of Stachybotrys atraApplied and Environmental Microbiology · 1987
  • Overview of investigations into pulmonary hemorrhage among infants in Cleveland, OhioEnvironmental Health Perspectives · 1999
  • Stachybotrys chartarum: current knowledge of its role in diseasePubMed · 2000

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