Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are a poisonous substance produced by certain types of mold. These toxins are released into the environment as a way for mold to defend itself.

Common molds associated with mycotoxin production are:

  • Aspergillus Flavus
  • Aspergillus Fumigatus
  • Aspergillus Fusarium
  • Aspergillus Niger
  • Aspergillus Ochraceus
  • Aspergillus Versicolor
  • Chaetomium Globosum
  • Penicillium Verrucosum
  • Stachybotrys Chartarum

I have Multiple Sclerosis that was worsening substantially in 2016. In just one year, I had two relapses that showed more lesions had formed on my brain and spinal cord, and my symptoms were becoming more and more alarming. I was recommended by my doctor to talk with The Mold Pros to get my house mold inspected, and they quickly uncovered a horrendous toxic black mold problem resulting from a leaky upstairs toilet. My doctor told me that she NEVER seen mold and mycotoxin counts as high as they were in my home. The Mold Pros were kind, respectful, took the time to answer all of my (zillion) questions, and were quick to respond to any email inquiries or phone calls I made to them. They kept to their promise of starting on our scheduled date, and ended just a few days later. They were respectful of my home and left it in good order. The third-party retest showed that no molds or mycotoxins were present. But the best news was when I had a new MRI done a few months later, and it was STABLE! I could not be happier with the exceptional work done by The Mold Pros and is immediate positive impact on my health. Thank you so much!!

- Sarah Grain

What is Mycotoxin Poisoning?

If you’ve had a mold issue or someone in your home is suffering from symptoms related to mycotoxins, you may need to call a specialist to handle the problem. Many times, homeowners think they have taken care of the issue by killing the visible mold. However, they may still have mycotoxins in their home. This is because these toxins are non-living chemicals that linger long after the producing mold has been eradicated. A journal article written in 2019 by Omotayo et al states that these invisible off-gases can have a major impact on human health. Invisible to the naked eye, these particles can permeate your house through your HVAC system. They can become airborne and setting on the food you eat. When you breathe the air, the mycotoxins can work their way into your lungs. If you are to also come into dermal contact with mycotoxins, it can be absorbed through the skin. Once they have entered the body, the can pass through the bloodstream and collect in vital organs such as your liver and kidney. Not all types of mold produce mycotoxins and not all these toxins cause serious health problems. Mycotoxin testing can be performed by your doctor to evaluate your symptoms. If at-home testing is required, a professional assessor is recommended.

Types of Mycotoxins

Ochratoxin

Aspergillus & Penicillium
  • Affects kidney function
  • Inhibits synthesis of proteins
  • Disrupts DNA and RNA
  •  Inhibits enzymes in the kidney

Ochratoxin A

Aspergillus & Penicillium
  • Food and water damaged buildings
  • NephrotoxicImmune suppression
  • Carcinogenic
  • Neurological symptoms

Gliotoxin

Aspergillus & Penicillium
  • Known immunosuppressive
  • Inhibits NF-κB
  • Inhibits Neutrophil functions

Aflatoxin

Aspergillus
  • Classified as Class I human carcinogen
  • Primarily attacks the liver
  • More toxic to children than adults
  • Carcinogenic, liver toxic

Aflatoxin Continued...

Aspergillus
  • Mental impairment
  • Abdominal pain
  • Depression of leucocytes
  • Headache
  • Jaundice

Trichothecenes

Fusarium, Stachybotrys, Trichothecium, Myrothecium

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