Types of Mold
There are approximately 100,000 genera of
mold species known today, with approximately 80 genera suspected of
causing some form of illness. Only a fraction of the 80 genera are
considered toxic. Molds are organized into three groups according to
human responses: Allergenic, Pathogenic and Toxigenic.
Allergenic Molds
Allergenic molds do not usually produce life-threatening health effects,
and are most likely to affect those who are already allergic or
asthmatic. The human system responses to allergenic molds tend to be
relatively mild, typically producing only scratchy throats and rashes.
Pathogenic Molds
Pathogenic molds usually produce some type of infection. They can cause
serious health effects in persons with suppressed immune systems,
although a normal, healthy individual can probably resist infection by
these organisms regardless of dose. In some cases, high exposure may
cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis (an acute response to exposure to an
organism).
Toxigenic Molds
Mycotoxins can cause serious health effects in almost anybody. These
agents have toxic effects ranging from short-term irritation to
immunosuppression and possibly cancer. Therefore, when toxigenic molds
are found further evaluation is recommended.
Mold - Overview
What is It?
Health Effects
Types
Conducive Conditions
Screening
Media
Litigation
