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Chapter 1 - Introduction to Molds
Lesson 4 - Mycotoxins and Health Effects
Chapter 1
Introduction to Molds
Lesson 1
What Molds Are
Lesson 2
What Mold Needs to Grow
Lesson 3 Health Effects That May Be Caused by Inhaling Mold or Mold Spores
Lesson 4
Mycotoxins and Health Effects
Lesson 5
The Color of Mold
Lesson 6
Moldy Smell
Lesson 7
Biocides
As molds grow, some (but not all) of them may produce potentially toxic byproducts called mycotoxins under some conditions. Some of these molds are commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings. More than 200 mycotoxins from common molds have been identified, and many more remain to be identified. The amount and types of mycotoxins produced by a particular mold depends on many environmental and genetic factors. No one can tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it. Some mycotoxins are known to affect people, but for many mycotoxins little health information is available. Research on mycotoxins is ongoing. Exposure to mycotoxins can occur from inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. It is prudent to avoid unnecessary inhalation exposure to mold.
For more information on mycotoxins, see the 2004 Institute of Medicine Report, Damp Indoor Spaces and Health, published by The National Academies Press in Washington, DC - See Resource List.
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