Mold Glossary of Terms and Definitions |
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| Absidia sp. - A zygomycete fungus which is considered
common to the indoor environment. Reported to be allergenic. May cause mucorosis
in immune compromised individuals. The sites of infection are the lung,
nasal sinus, brain, eye, and skin. Infection may have multiple sites. Absidia
cormbifera has been an invasive infection agent in AIDS and neutropenic
patients, as well as, agents of bovine mycotic abortions, and feline subcutaneous
abscesses. Acremonium species may be confused with Fusarium species that
primarily produce microconidia in culture. Fusarium genera are generally
much more rapid growers and produce more aerial mycelium. |
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| Acremonium sp. (Cephalosporium sp.) - Reported
to be allergenic. Can produce a trichothecene toxin which is toxic if ingested.
It was the primary fungus identified in at least two houses where the occupant
complaints were nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Asexual state of Emericellopsis
sp., Chaetomium sp., and Nectripsis sp. It can produce mycetomas, infections
of the nails, onychomycosis, corneal ulcers, eumycotic mycetoma, endophthalmitis,
meningitis, and endocarditis. |
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| Acrodontium salmoneum - Reported to be a fairly
common airborne fungus and is considered to be allergenic. Can produce a
trichothecene toxin which is toxic if ingested. It was the primary fungus
identified in at least two houses where the occupant complaints were nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea. It can produce mycetomas, infections of the nails,
onychomycosis, corneal ulcers, eumycotic mycetoma, endophthalmitis, meningitis,
and endocarditis. It is the asexual state of Emericellopsis sp., Chaetomium
sp., and Nectripsis sp. |
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| Alternaria sp. - Extremely widespread and ubiquitous.
Outdoors it may be isolated from samples of soil, seeds, and plants. It
is commonly found in outdoor samples. It is often found in carpets, textiles,
and on horizontal surfaces in building interiors. Often found on window
frames. The species Alternaria alternata is capable of producing tenuazonic
acid and other toxic metabolites which may be associated with disease in
humans or animals. Alternaria produces large spores having sizes between
20 - 200 microns in length and 7 - 18 microns in width, suggesing that the
spores from this fungi are deposited in the nose, mouth, and upper respiratory
tract. It may be related to bakers asthma. It has been associated with hypersensitivity
pneumoniti, sinusitis, deratomycosis, onychomycosis, subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis,
and invasive infection. Common cause of extrinsic asthma (immediate-type
hypersensitivity: type I). Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms,
chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. |
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| Aphanoascus fulvescens - Extremely widespread
in soil, animal skin scrapings, and dung. Is often associated with birds
nests and feathers. Should be considered an allergen. This fungus has also
been documented in skin infections. No toxic related diseases are of record
to date. |
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| Apophysomyces elegans - Extremely widespread
in soil and decaying vegetation. Should be considered an allergen. This
fungus has also been documented in various zygomycosis including necrotizing
fascitis, osteomyelitis, and angioinvasion. Most cases are acquired through
the tramatic implantation of the fungus. No toxic related diseases are of
record to date. |
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| Arthrinium phaeospermum - Widespread saprophyte
on dead plant material, particularly swampy grasses. Should be considered
an allergen. This fungus has also been documented in various subcutaneous
infections. No toxic related diseases are of record to date. |
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| Arthrographis spp. - Extremely widespread in
soil and decaying vegetation. Arthrographis cuboidea and A. kalrae should
be considered to be allergens. A kalrae has been documented in onychomycosis
and has been recovered from the skin, nails, and respiratory sites but has
not been established as an etiological agent. No toxic related diseases
are of record to date. |
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| Ascomycete. - One of the major classes of fungal
organisms. This class contains the the"sac fungi" and yeasts.
Some ascomycete spores can be identified by spore morphology, however; some
care should be excersised with regard to specific identification. Many ascomycete
spores are reported to be allergenic. |
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Aspergillus sp. - A genus of fungi containing
approximately 150 recognized species. Members of this genus have been recovered
from a variety of habitats, but are especially common as saprophytes on
decaying vegetation, soils, stored food, feed products in tropical and subtropical
regions. Some species are parasitic on insects, plants and animals, including
man. Species within this genus have reported Aw's (water activities) between
0.75 - 0.82. All of the species contained in this genus should be considered
allergenic. Various Aspergillus species are a common cause of extrinsic
asthma (immediate-type hypersensitivity: type I). Acute symptoms include
edema and bronchiospasms. Chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema.
Members of this genus are reported to cause a variety of opportunistic infections
of the ears and eyes. Sever pulmonary infections may also occur. Many species
produce mycotoxins which may be associated with disease in humans and other
animals. Toxin production is dependent on the species or a strain within
a species and on the food source for the fungus. Some of these toxins have
been found to be carcinogenic in animal species. Several toxins are considered
potential human carcinogens.
Aspergillus alliaceus- This species is not commonly reported from nature
and is not considered common to indoor environments. It has been isolated
from soils in desert areas, grassland or cultivated soils, cacti, onion,
and garlic bulbs. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic
or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus auricomus- This species was originally
isolated from an aqueous solution of potassium iodidie. It has also been
isolated from cottonseed in Arizona. This species is not considered common
to indoor environments. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No
toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus caespitosus - This species is not
considered common to indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated
from soils but has also been isolated from sugarcane bagesse. This fungus
should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been
documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus caesiellus - This species is not
considered common to indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated
from soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. This species has been reported as an opportunistic
pathogen. |
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| Aspergillus candidus - This species considered
common to indoor environments. It occurs predominantely in tropical and
subtropical regions in stored foods and feedstuffs such as wheat, corn,
barely, sorghum, rice, peanuts, dried macaroni and spaghetti, refrigerated
dough products, and flour. It has also been isolated from soils. It has
an Aw (water activity) of 0.75 and Conidia (spores) dimensions 2.5-4 microns.
This fungus should be considered allergenic. This species has been reported
as an opportunistic pathogen including onychomycosis, otomycosis, and invasive
aspergillosis. It has also been reported to produce the toxin petulin which
may be associated with disease in humans and other animals. |
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| Aspergillus carbonarius - This distinctive species
has not been commonly reported. It has been isolated from mud and wood in
mangrove swamps, soil, and polluted water. This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus carneus - This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated from tropical
and subtropical soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic
diseases have been documented to date. This species has been reported as
an opportunistic pathogen. |
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| Aspergillus cervinus - This species has not
been commonly reported. It has been isolated from tropical rainforest soils
in Malaya, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, Wisconsin, and India. This species
is not considered common to indoor environments. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus clavatus - This distinctive species
is a common soil fungus with widespread distribution in soils in warmer
climates. It also is quite widely distributed in some kinds of foods, especially
cereals. This species is not considered common to indoor environments, however;
it has been frequently associated with the brewing industry. This fungus
should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been
documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus deflectus - This species is not
considered common to indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated
from tropical and subtropical soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. This species has been reported
as an opportunistic pathogen. |
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| Aspergillus flavipes - This species may be recovered
from indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated from tropical
and subtropical soils and decaying vegetation, however; it has also been
isolated from deteriorated cotton fabric. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. No toxic diseases have been documented to date. This species
has been reported as an opportunistic pathogen associated with cutaneous
aspergillosis and osteomyelitis. |
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| Aspergillus flavus - This species may be recovered
from the indoor environment. It has worldwide distribution but is predominantly
a tropical to subtropical fungus apparently more common in cultivated than
uncultivated soil. It colonizes on decaying vegetation, crop seeds and many
other substrates. It grows on moldy corn and peanuts and can also be found
in other foods and dairy products. It has been reported in water damaged
carpets. It has also been reported as an insect and animal pathogen. This
fungus has an Aw (water activity) of 0.78. and conidia (spores) dimensions
3-6 microns or 3-5 microns. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
Its presence has been associated with reports of asthma. Approximately 50%
of the strains are capable of producing a group of mycotoxins - in the aflatoxin
group. Aflatoxins are known animal carcinogen. There is limited evidence
to suggest that this toxin is also a human carcinogen. The production of
the fungal toxin is dependent on the growth conditions and on the substrate
used as a food source. The toxin is poisonous to humans by ingestion and
may directly affect the liver. Experiments have indicated that it is teratogenic
and mutagenic. This fungus may also result in disease via inhalation and
is associated with aspergillosis of the lungs and/or disseminated aspergillosis.
This fungus is occasionally identified as the cause of corneal, otomycotic,
and nasoorbital infections. |
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| Aspergillus foetidus - This species is not commonly
reported from nature and is not considered common to indoor environments.
It has been used in several industrial processes including koji for shochu
and enzyme production. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic
or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus fumigatus - This species may be
recovered from the indoor environment. It has worldwide distribution and
grows over a wide range of temperatures. It has been recovered from soils,
plants, seeds, sludge, wood chips, compost, cotton, and penguin excreta.
It is commonly found outdoors in compost piles with temperatures higher
than 40 degrees C, in mild to warm soils and on cereals. This fungus has
an Aw (water activity) of 0.82 with an optimum > 0.97. Conidia (spores)
have dimensions of 2-3.5 microns. This fungus should be considered allergenic,
however; it should be considered as a principle cause for both invasive
and allergic aspergillosis. This organisms will particularly affect individuals
who are immune compromised. It is considered a true human pathogen. No toxic
diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus japonicus - This species is not
commonly reported from nature and is not considered common to indoor environments.
It has been isolated from subtropical and tropical soils and also submerged
organic debris. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or
invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus kanagawaensis - This species is
not commonly reported from nature and is not considered common to indoor
environments. It has been isolated from soils in hemlock and jack pine forest
in Wisconsin. Has also been isolated from soils in Japan. This fungus should
be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented
to date. |
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| Aspergillus glaucus - This species may be recovered
from the indoor environment. It has widespread distribution in subtropical
regions. It has been recovered in nature from soils and on plants. This
fungus can grow at low moisture levels and has also been isolated from grains,
sugary food products, meat, wool, dried foods, and leather. It has been
reported as a common outdoor fungus in the winter. The conidia (spores)
for this fungus have dimensions of 5-6.5 microns and is the imperfect stage
of the ascomycetous fungus Eurotium sp. It is reported to be allergenic.
This species is only occasionally pathogenic and has been associated with
sinusitis, otitis, cerebral, orofacial, and pulmonary infections. No toxic
diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus nidulans - This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. It has been frequently isolated from tropical
and subtropical soils but less frequently from other areas. This fungus
has an Aw (water activity) of 0.78 with conidia (spores) having dimensions
of 2-4 microns. It is reported to be allergenic. This species has been reported
in a variety of animal and human infections including invasive and systemic
disease including aspergillosis of the lungs and/or disseminated aspergillosis.
It can produce the mycotoxin sterigmatocysti that has been shown to produce
liver and kidney damage in lab animals. |
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| Aspergillus niger - This species is considered
common to indoor environments. It is widespread in the soil and on plants
and is also considered a common contaminant of foods. It has a musty odor.
It is commonly found in the environment on textiles, in soils, grains, fruits
and vegetables isolated from tropical and subtropical soils but less frequently
from other areas. This fungus has an Aw (water activity) of 0.77 with an
optimum > 0.97 . Conidia (spores) have dimensions of 3.5 - 5 microns
or 4 to 5 microns. It is reported to be allergenic. It is common in secondary
organisms following bacterial otitis and is more commonly being implicated
in pulmonary disease in immunocompromised hosts. It has also been reported
to cause skin infections. |
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| Aspergillus niveus - This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated from soils
and appears to be widely distributed. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus ochraceus - This species is considered
common to indoor environments. It is widespread in cultivated soils, but
has also been documented in uncultivated soils, grains, and salted food
products. It is not usually associated with decaying vegetation. This fungus
has an Aw (water activity) of 0.77 with conidia (spores) having dimensions
of 2.5 - 3 microns. It is reported to be allergenic. It has not been reported
as causing any invasive disease to date. This fungus can also produce ochratoxin
A, which may produce ochratoxicosis in humans. This is also known as Balkan
nephropathy, a disorder that affects the kidneys. The toxin is produced
at optimum growth conditions at 25 degrees C and high moisture conditions.
The ochratoxin may also be produced by other Aspergillus sp. and Penicillium
sp. Other toxins which can be produced by this fungus include penicillic
acid, xanthomegnin and viomellein. These are all reported to be kidney and
liver toxins. |
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| Aspergillus oryzae - This species may be considered
common to some indoor environments. It has been predominantly isolated from
soils, vegetative plant parts, seeds, and cotton fabrics. It is also used
in food fermentations, in the production of saki, shoyu, miso, and soy sauce,
and as a source of industrial enzymes. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus ostianus - This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. It has been isolated from animal feed, chicory
seed, and gram seed storage. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus paradoxus - This species is considered
a very uncommon species that is not considered typical of indoor environments.
It has been isolated from opossum dung and soil. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus parasiticus - This species is not
considered common to indoor environments. It has been isolated from cultivated
soils. Lack of reported isolations may be due in part to the failure of
investigators to differentiate A. parasiticus from A. flavus. It has been
isolated more frequently from seeds, other plants, and insects. This fungus
should be considered allergenic. No invasive diseases have been documented
to date. Some strains are capable of producing a group of mycotoxins - in
the aflatoxin group. Aflatoxins are known animal carcinogen. There is limited
evidence to suggest that this toxin is a human carcinogen. The toxin is
poisonous to humans by ingestion. Experiments have indicated that it is
teratogenic and mutagenic. It is toxic to the liver. The production of the
fungal toxin is dependent on the growth conditions and on the substrate
used as a food source. |
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| Aspergillus penicilloides - This species is
not generally considered common to indoor environments, however; this may
be related to its xerophyilic nature (can grow in areas with low water activity)
and that it grows very poorly on usual laboratory media. Therefore, it may
often be overlooked in typical investigations. Reports in the literature
are quite rare, however, if suitable media are used, the species can be
recovered in large numbers from a variety of dried foods, house dust, spices,
and cereals. This fungus should be considered allergenic. It has also been
reported as an opportunistic pathogen. No toxic diseases have been documented
to date. |
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| Aspergillus puniceus - This species is not commonly
reported from nature and is not considered common to indoor environments.
It has been isolated from soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus restrictus - This species is not
generally considered common to indoor environments, however; this may be
related to its slow growing nature. Therefore, it may often be overlooked
in typical investigations. It has been isolated from a variety of subtrates
including soil, cotton goods and fruit juices, and from air. This fungus
should be considered allergenic. It has also been reported as an opportunistic
pathogen and associated with endocarditis, onychomycosis, and pulmonary
aspergillosis. No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus sclerotiorum - This species is not
considered common to indoor environments. It has been isolated from tropical
and subtropical soils. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic
or invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus sojae - This species is not considered
common to indoor environments. To date, it has only been isolated from koji
fermentations. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or
invasive diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus sparsis - This species is not considered
common to both outdoor or indoor environments. It has been isolated from
soil. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive
diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus sydowi - This species has worldwide
distribution. Its primary habitat is the soil, but it has been reecovered
from a variety of other substrates. Found in warmer soil and in grains,
straw, cotton, and decomposing vegetation. It appears to be less common
in foods than A. versicolor. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
This fungus is associated with aspergillosis of the lungs and/or disseminated
aspergillosis otomycosis (ear infection) and onychomycosis (infection of
finger or toe nails). This fungus can produce the toxins patulin and citrinin
which may be associated with disease in humans and other animals. |
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Aspergillus tamarii - This species is not considered
common to both outdoor or indoor environments. It was originally isolated
from tamari sauce. It is fairly common soil fungus and has been isolated
from seeds of various crops and other substrates. This fungus should be
considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented
to date.
Aspergillus terreus - This fungus has worldwide distribution in soils, but
is more abundant in tropical and subtropical regions rather than temperate
regions. It is also common in cultivated soils and forests than grasslands.
It is common in stored crops and has been isolated from other foodstuffs.
It should be considered allergenic. Invasive bronchopulmonary aspergillosis,
onychomycosis, cutaneous, ophthalmic, and disseminated mycosis have been
documented. No toxic or invasive diseases have been documented to date.
Aspergillus unguis - This species is not considered common but have been
isolated from a variety of substrates including man, shoe leather, and sesame
seeds. This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive
diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus ustus - This species is not considered
common in habitats other than tropical or subtropical soils. This fungus
should be considered allergenic. This species is only occasionally pathogenic
and has been associated with otitis media, burns, and disseminated infections.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Aspergillus versicolor - This is a widely distributed
fungus commonly found in soil, hay, cotton, dairy products, dried cereals,
nuts, and especially spices. It is often considered to be one of the most
widely distributed species of Aspergillus. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. This species is pathogenic and has been associated with onychomycosis
and invasive aspergillosis. It can produce a mycotoxin sterigmatocystin
and cyclopiaxonic acid. These toxins can cause diarrhea and upset stomach.
It is also reported to be a kidney and liver carcinogen. |
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| Aspergillus wentii - This species is considered
common with its main distribution in tropical or subtropical soils. It has
also been isolated from plant litter and seeds. This fungus should be considered
allergenic. This species is only occasionally pathogenic and has been associated
with otitis media, burns, and disseminated infections. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
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| Aureobasidium pullulans- A cosmopolitan fungus
with the main habitat apparently on the aerial parts of plants. Frequently
found in moist environments. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
This species has been associated with deratitis, peritonitis, pulmaonary
infection, and invasive disease in AIDS patients. Probably aquired by traumatic
implantation. May be recovered as a contaminant from human cutaneous sites.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Basidiomycetes - One of the major classes of
fungal organisms. This class contains the mushrooms, shelf fungi, puffballs,
and a variety of other macrofungi. It is extremely difficult to identify
a specific genera of mushrooms by using standard culture plate techniques.
Some basidiomycete spores can be identified by spore morphology, however;
some care should be exercised with regard to specific identification. Many
basidiomycete spores are reported to be allergenic. |
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| Basidiobolus - Has been isolated from decaying
plants, soil, and from the fecal materials of frogs, reptiles, fish, and
bats. The relationship of these organisms to human occupied spaces potentiallly
suggests a common present of this genera of fungi in the indoor environments.
Should be considered allergenic. Basidiobolus ranarum rarely causes disease,
but has prinicipally been involved with trunk and extremity infection of
children in tropical countries. No toxic diseases have been documented to
date. |
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| Beauveria - Widespread in the soil with various
species being parasites of insects, the most notable geing Beauveria bassiana
which affects the silkworm. Not considered to be common to indoor environments.
Should be considered allergenic. Reported to cause mycotic keratitis and
occasional pulmonary infections. No toxic diseases have been documented
to date. |
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| Bipolaris sp. - A widespread fungus that is
most frequently associated with grasses, plant material, decaying food,
and soil. It is common to both indoor and outdoor environments. Older obsolete
names include Drechslera and Helminthosporium. This fungus produces large
spores which would be expected to be deposited in the upper respiratory
tract. Various species of this fungus can produce the mycotoxin - sterigmatocystin
which has been shown to produce liver and kidney damage when ingested by
laboratory animals. |
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| Bipolaris australiensis - A widespread fungus
that is most frequently associated with grasses, plant material, and soil.
Should be considered allergenic. Has also been reported as an infrequent
agent of phaeohyphomycosis, particularly fungal sinusitis. It can occasionally
cause a corneal infection of the eye. |
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| Bipolaris cynodontis. - A widespread fungus
that is most frequently associated with bermuda grass. Recoveries have been
made from human sinus and eyes, however; its exact role as a etiological
agent remain unclear. |
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| Bipolaris hawaiiensis - A widespread fungus
that is most frequently associated with grasses, plant material, and soil.
Should be considered allergenic. Common etiologic agent in fungal sinusitis.
Also reported cases of pulmonary and cerebral disease, menigoencephalitis,
and endophthalmitis. This organisms appears to be extremely agressive in
some settings, possibly neutrotropic. |
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| Bipolaris spicifera - A widespread fungus that
is most frequently associated with grasses and plant material, and soil.
Should be considered allergenic. Common etiologic agent in fungal sinusitis.
Also been reported as an agent of phaeohyphomycosis, particularly fungal
sinusitis. Disease also includes endocarditis, keratitis, osteomyelitis,
peritonitis, and meningoencephalitis. This is the most common Bipolaris
species implicated in human disease. |
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| Blastomyces sp. - Blastomyces dermatitidis-
Rare environmental isolates have been found in moist soil with high organic
content. Important human pathogen. It is a thermally dimorphic fungus which
has filamentous fungus when grown at 25 degrees C and a yeast form at 37
degrees C. Causes Blastomycosis in humans and animals involving pulmonary
invasion, followed by cutaneous, osteoarticular and genitourinary disease.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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Blastoschizomyces sp. - Blastoschizomyces capitatus
found in the soil, beach sand, as a normal flora of the skin, respiratory
and digestive tracts of humans. Invasive and disseminated infections have
been reported in immunocompromised patients. Cases of encephalitis and osteomyelitis
have also been reported. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.
Botrytis sp. - It is parasitic on plants, vegetables, and soft fruits but
may also be found in soil. Reported to be allergenic. No toxic or invasive
diseases have been documented to date. |
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C
Candida sp. - This genus contains a variety
of organisms that have been isolated from the environment, as well as human
skin and mucous membranes. |
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| Candida albicans - Found in animals and in man.
Has been isolated from the skin and mucosa of man, but has also been recovered
from leaves, flowers, water, and soil. Reported to be allergenic. A common
cause of superficial infection, oral and vaginal infection, sepsis, and
disseminated disease. Cells from the organism are usually not airborne and
are considered to be a normal component of the flora of mouth and other
mucous membranes in the body. Thrush and other diseases caused by Candida
albicans usually occur after prolonged treatment with antibiotics or steroids.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Candida ciferrii - Found in soils. Considered
to be allergenic. A common cause of superficial infection isolated from
ears, skin, nails, and eyes. No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Candida glabrata - Found associated with man,
mammals, birds, fruit juices, and insects. Considered to be allergenic.
Implicated in sepsis, persistent urinary tract infections, and refracatory
vaginitis. A major emerging pathogen in nosocomial disease. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
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| Candida guilliermondii - Found associated with
man and other mammals, brewery products, vegetation, and insects. Considered
to be allergenic. Implicated in sepsis, urinary tract infections, respiratory
speciments, brain abscesses, skin and nail cultures. No toxic diseases have
been documented to date. |
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Candida kefyr - Found in grains, dairy products,
man and other mammals. Considered to be allergenic. Rare cause of human
mycoses. May cause blood sepsis, invasive disease, and vaginitis, and urinary
tract infections. No toxic diseases have been documented to date.
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| Candida krusei - Found in air samples, dairy
products, soil, man and other mammals. Considered to be allergenic. Involved
in sepsis and disseminated, invasive disease, includingendocarditis, peritonitis,
vaginitis, and urinary tract infections. No toxic diseases have been documented
to date. |
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| Candida lambica - Found in dairy products, fruit
juice, water, birds, and man. Considered to be allergenic. |
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| Candida lipolytica - Found in man and other
mammals, corn, olives, and hydrocarbons. Considered to be allergenic. Implicated
in sepsis, thrombophlebitis, and chronic sinusitis. No toxic diseases have
been documented to date. |
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| Candida lusitaniae - Found in man and other
mammals, birds, citris fruits, and pears. Considered to be allergenic. Implicated
in sepsis, especially in immunocompromised patients with underlying malignancy,
and urinary tract infection. No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Candida parapsilosis - Found in man and other
mammals, tea, fruit juices, and water. Considered to be allergenic. Implicated
in sepsis. Associated with burn infections and endocarditis. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
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| Candida rugosa - Found in dairy products, feces,
seawater, and insects. Considered to be allergenic. Implicated in sepsis.
Implicated in fungemia, burn infection, and glandular infections in cattle.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
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| Candida tropicalis - Found in humans and other
mammals, fruit, and water. Considered to be allergenic. Considered a true
pathogen of immunocompromised hosts. Implicated in sepsis, wound infections,
neonatal infections, and disseminated deep tissue infections. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
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| Candida zeylanoides - Found in humans, soil,
meat, fish, and water. Considered to be allergenic. Implicated in sepsis,
endocarditis, fungal arthritis, skin and nail infections. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
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| Cephalosporium sp. - See Acremonium sp. |
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| Chaetomium sp. - Large ascomycetous fungus producing
perithecia. It is found on a variety of substrates containing cellulose
including paper and plant compost. It can be readily found on the damp or
water damaged paper in sheetrock. |
| |
| Chaetomium atrobrunneum - This fungus is found
in the soil, air, and on plant debris. Should be considered as allergenic.
Has been implicated in fatal systemic mycoses. The thermophilic, neurotropic
nature of this organisms suggests it is a potentially agressive pathogen.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
| |
| Chaetomium globosum - This fungus is found in
the soil, air and on plant debris. Should be considered as allergenic. Is
considered an agent of onychomycosis, peritonitis, and cutaneous lesions.
Has been implicated in fatal systemic mycoses. No toxic diseases have been
documented to date. |
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| Chaetomium strumarium - This fungus is common
in warm soil and on plant debris. Should be considered as allergenic. Has
been implicated in fatal brain abscesses in drug abusers. No toxic diseases
have been documented to date. |
| |
| Chrysosporium spp. - Widespread, common in the
soil and on plants. Rare agents of onychomycosis, skin lesions, endocarditis,
and uncommon agents of the pulmonary mycosis adiaspiromycosis. No toxic
diseases have been documented to date. |
| |
| Cladophialophora spp. - Widespread, common in
the soil and on plant debris. C. bantiana has been reported as a neurotropic
agent causing cerebral phaeohyphomycosis in the form of brain abscesses.
Skin lesions have also been reported. The organisms has also been recovered
from pulmonary sites. C. boppii has been associated with skin lesions and
a possible cause of chromoblastomycosis. C. carrionii is almost exclusively
associated with chromoblastomycosis, which is generally restricted to subtropical
areas. Most patients have had long-term soil exposure with repeated trauma
and tissue injuries to the feet and legs. No toxic diseases have been documented
to date. |
| |
| Cladosporium sp. (Hormodendrum sp.) - Aw (water
activity) in the range of 0.84 to 0.88. Most commonly identified outdoor
fungus. The outdoor numbers are reduced in the winter. The numbers are often
high in the summer. Often found indoors in numbers less than outdoor numbers.
It is a common allergen. Indoor Cladosporium sp. may be different than the
species identified outdoors. It is commonly found on the surface of fiberglass
duct liner in the interior of supply ducts. A wide variety of plants are
food sources for this fungus. It is found on dead plants, woody plants,
food, straw, soil, paint and textiles. It can cause mycosis. Produces greater
than 10 antigens. Antigens in commercial extracts are of variable quality
and may degrade within weeks of preparation. Common cause of extrinsic asthma
(immediate-type hypersensitivity: type I). Acute symptoms include edema
and bronchiospasms, chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. |
| |
| Cladosporium cladosporioides - Widespread distribution.
Together with C. herbarum compose the most common species on dead organic
matter and in the air. It is found on dead plants, woody plants, food, straw,
soil, paint and textiles. Reported allergen. Has been implicated in pulmonary
and cutaneous infections, possible sinus infection, mixed disseminated infections.
No toxic diseases have been documented to date. |
| |
| Cladosporium herbarum - Widespread distribution.
Together with C. cladosporioides compose the most common species on dead
organic matter and in the air. It is found on dead plants, woody plants,
food, straw, soil, paint, and textiles. Reported allergen. Has been implicated
in cutaneous infections and keatitis. No toxic diseases have been documented
to date. |
| |
| Cladosporium macrocarpum - Common species on
dead organic matter and in the air. It is found on dead plants, woody plants,
food, straw, soil, paint, and textiles. Reported allergen. No toxic or invasive
diseases have been documented to date. |
| |
| Cladosporium sphaerospermum - Worldwide distribution.
Considered a secondary invader of plants, textiles, food and is common to
the soil, and air. Reported allergen. Implicated in skin lesions, corneal
ulcer, and onychomycosis. |
| |
| Cladosporium fulvum (Fulvia fulva) - Conidia
(spores) dimensions 12-47 x 4-10 microns. It is found on the leaves of tomatoes. |
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| Cryptostroma corticale - Conidia (spores) dimensions
4-6.5 x 3.5-4 microns. Found on the bark of maple and sycamore trees and
on stored logs. |
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| Conidobolus sp. - Can cause a chronic inflammatory
disease of the nasal mucosa (entomophthoromycosis). |
| |
| Cunninghamella sp. - Can cause disseminated
and pulmonary infections in immune compromised hosts. |
| |
| Curvularia sp. - Reported to be allergenic.
It may cause corneal infections, mycetoma and infections in immune compromised
hosts. |
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D
Dreschlera sp. - Conidia (spores) dimensions 40-120 x 17-28 microns. Found
on grasses, grains and decaying food. It can occasionally cause a corneal
infection of the eye. |
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E
Emericella nidulans - A ubiquitous soil fungus. Most often isolated from
tropical and subtropical climates. Perfect stage of Aspergillus nidulans.
This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases
have been reported to date. |
| |
| Emericella quadrillineata- A ubiquitous soil
fungus. Most often isolated from tropical and subtropical climates. Perfect
stage of Aspergillus tetrazonus. This fungus should be considered allergenic.
No toxic or invasive diseases have been reported to date. |
| |
| Emericella rugulosa- A relatively uncommon species
most commonly isolated from soil. Perfect stage of Aspergillus rugulovalvus.
This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases
have been reported to date. |
| |
| Epicoccum sp. - Conidia (spores) dimensions
15-25 microns. A common allergen. It is found in plants, soil, grains, textiles,
and paper products. |
| |
Epidermophyton sp. - Can cause infections of
skin and nails.
Eurotium amstelodami - This fungus is frequently encountered in tropical
and subtropical regions. It is frequently reported from soils and dried
or concentrated food products. It is the perfect stage of Aspergillus amstelodami.
This fungus should be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases
have been reported to date. |
| |
| Eurotium chevalieri - This fungus is frequently
encountered in tropical and subtropical regions. It is frequently reported
from soils and dried or concentrated food products, leather goods, cotton,
seeds, and other dried products. The fungus is considered to be a xerophile.
It is the perfect stage of Aspergillus chevalieri. This fungus should be
considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been reported
to date. |
| |
| Eurotium rubrum - This fungus is frequently
encountered in tropical and subtropical regions. It is frequently reported
from soils and dried or concentrated food products, leather goods, cotton,
seeds, and other dried products. The fungus is considered to be a xerophile.
It is the perfect stage of Aspergillus rubrobrunneus. This fungus should
be considered allergenic. No toxic or invasive diseases have been reported
to date. |
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F
Fusarium solani - Aw (water activity) 0.90. Macroconidia (spores) dimensions
27-52 x 4.4-6.8; Microconidia dimensions 8-16 x 2-4 microns. Found in plants
and soils. Can produce trichothecene toxins which may be associated with
disease in humans and animals. |
| |
| Fusarium sp. - Aw (water activity) 0.90. A common
soil fungus. It is found on a wide range of plants. It is often found in
humidifiers. Several species in this genus can produce potent trichothecene
toxins (5, 27). The trichothecene (scirpene) toxin targets the following
systems: circulatory, alimentary, skin, and nervous. Produces vomitoxin
on grains during unusually damp growing conditions. Symptoms may occur either
through ingestion of contaminated grains or possibly inhalation of spores.
The genera can produce hemorrhagic syndrome in humans (alimentary toxic
aleukia). This is characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis,
and extensive internal bleeding. Reported to be allergenic. Frequently involved
in eye, skin and nail infections. |
| |
G
Geotrichum sp. - Aw (water activity) 0.90. Conidia (spores) dimensions 6-12
x 3-6 microns. Aw (water activity) 0.90. A common contaminant of grains,
fruits, dairy products, paper, textiles, soil and water, and often present
as part of the normal human flora. The species Geotrichum candidum can cause
a secondary infection (geotrichosis) in association with tuberculosis. This
rare disease can cause lesions of the skin, bronchi, mouth, lung, and intestine. |
| |
| Gliocladium sp. - A fungus which is structurally
similar to Penicillium sp. It is reported to be allergenic. |
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H
Helminthosporium sp. - Reported to be allergenic. |
| |
| Histoplasma sp. - A fungus which has filamentous
growth at 25 degrees C and yeast growth at 37 degrees C. It is reported
to be a human pathogen. It may be associated with birds. |
| |
| Humicula sp. - Grow on products with a high
cellulose content. These fungi are also found in soil and on plant debris. |
| |
Hyaline Mycelia - Sterile mycelia which is white
or transparent. No fruiting structures are produced by the mycelia. Visual
identification of these organisms is not possible. Often associated with
allergic symptoms.
I-L, still under construction |
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M
Microsporum sp. - Causes ringworm in humans. |
| |
| Monilia sp. - Reported to be allergenic. This
fungus produces soft rot of tree fruits. Other members produce a red bread
mold. It is infrequently involved in corneal eye infections. |
| |
| Mucor sp. - Often found in soil, dead plant
material, horse dung, fruits, and fruit juice. It is also found in leather,
meat, dairy products, animal hair, and jute. A Zygomycetes fungus which
may be allergenic (skin and bronchial tests) (7, 17). This organism and
other Zygomycetes will grow rapidly on most fungal media. May cause mucorosis
in immune compromised individuals. The sites of infection are the lung,
nasal sinus, brain, eye, and skin. Infection may have multiple sites. |
| |
N
Nigrospora sp. - Reported to be allergenic. |
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| O, still under construction |
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P
Paecilomyces sp. - Commonly found in soil and dust, less frequently in air.
P. variotii can cause paecilomycosis. Linked to wood-trimmers disease and
humidifier associated illnesses. They are reported to allergenic. Some members
of this genus are reported to cause pneumonia. It may produce arsine gas
if growing on arsenic substrate. This can occur on wallpapers covered with
paris green. |
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| Papulospora sp. - This fungi is found in soil,
textiles, decaying plants, manure, and paper. |
| |
Penicillium sp. - Aw (water activity) 0.78 - 0.88.
A wide number of organisms have placed in this genera. Identification to species
is difficult. Often found in aerosol samples. Commonly found in soil, food,
cellulose, and grains (17, 5). It is also found in paint and compost piles.
It may cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis and allergic alveolitis in susceptible
individuals. It is reported to be allergenic (skin) (7, 17). It is commonly
found in carpet, wallpaper, and in interior fiberglass duct insulation (NC).
Some species can produce mycotoxins. Common cause of extrinsic asthma (immediate-type
hypersensitivity: type I). Acute symptoms include edema and bronchiospasms,
chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. |
| |
| Periconia sp. - No information available, more
to come. |
|
Phoma sp. - A common indoor air allergen. It
is similar to the early stages of growth of Chaetomium sp. The species are
isolated from soil and associated plants (particularly potatoes). Produces
pink and purple spots on painted walls (3, 17). It may have antigens which
cross-react with those of Alternaria sp. It will grow on butter, paint,
cement, and rubber. It may cause phaeohyphomycosis, a systematic or subcutaneous
disease.
Pithomyces sp. - Grows on dead grass in pastures. Causes facial eczema in
ruminants. |
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| Q, still under construction |
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R
Rhizomucor sp. - The Zygomycetous fungus is reported to be allergenic. It
may cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals. It occupies a biological
niche similar to Mucor sp. It is often linked to occupational allergy. The
sites of infection are the lung, nasal sinus, brain, eye, and skin. Infection
may have multiple sites. |
| |
| Rhizopus sp. - The Zygomycetous fungus is reported
to be allergenic. It may cause mucorosis in immune compromised individuals.
It occupies a biological niche similar to Mucor sp. It is often linked to
occupational allergy. The sites of infection are the lung, nasal sinus,
brain, eye, and skin. Infection may have multiple sites. |
| |
| Rhodotorula sp. - A reddish yeast typically
found in moist environments such as carpeting, cooling coils, and drain
pans. In some countries it is the most common yeast genus identified in
indoor air. This yeast has been reported to be allergenic. Positive skin
tests have been reported. It has colonized in terminally ill patients. |
| |
S
Saccharomyces sp. - Reported to be allergenic. Baker's Yeast.
Scopulariopsis sp. - It may produce arsine gas if growing on arsenic substrate.
This can occur on wallpapers covered with paris green. It has been found
growing on a wide variety of materials including house dust. It is associated
with type III allergy. |
| |
| Serpula lacrymans - Common cause of extrinsic
asthma (immediate-type hypersensitivity: type I). Acute symptoms include
edema and bronchiospasms; chronic cases may develop pulmonary emphysema. |
| |
| Sporobolomyces sp. - Reported to be allergenic. |
| |
| Sporothrix sp. - Can cause sporotrichosis. Usually
only in populations which are immune compromised. |
| |
| Sporotrichum sp. - Reported to be allergenic.
See also Sporothrix sp. as there is some taxonomic confusion between these
two genera. This genera does not cause sporotrichosis. |
| |
| Stachybotrys sp. - Aw (water activity) - 0.94,
optimum Aw (water activity) - >0.98. Several strains of this fungus (S.
atra, S. chartarum and S. alternans are synonymous) may produce a trichothecene
mycotoxin- Satratoxin H - which is poisonous by inhalation. The toxins are
present on the fungal spores. This is a slow growing fungus on media. It
does not compete well with other rapidly growing fungi. The dark colored
fungi grows on building material with a high cellulose content and a low
nitrogen content. Areas with relative humidity above 55% and are subject
to temperature fluctuations are ideal for toxin production. Individuals
with chronic exposure to the toxin produced by this fungus reported cold
and flu symptoms, sore throats, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, dermatitis,
intermittent local hair loss, and generalized malaise. The toxins produced
by this fungus will suppress the immune system affecting the lymphoid tissue
and the bone marrow. Animals injected with the toxin from this fungus exhibited
the following symptoms: necrosis and hemorrhage within the brain, thymus,
spleen, intestine, lung, heart, lymph node, liver, and kidney. The mycotoxin
is also reported to be a liver and kidney carcinogen. Affects by absorption
of the toxin in the human lung are known as pneumomycosis. This organism
is rarely found in outdoor samples. It is usually difficult to find in indoor
air samples unless it is physically disturbed. The spores are in a gelatinous
mass. Appropriate media for the growth of this organism will have a high
cellulose content and a low nitrogen content. The spores will die readily
after release. The dead spores are still allergenic and toxigenic. Percutaneous
absorption has caused mild symptoms. |
| |
| Stemphylium sp. - Reported to be allergenic.
Isolated from dead plants and cellulose materials. |
| |
| Syncephalastrum sp. - Can cause a respiratory
infection characterized by a solid fungal ball. |
| |
T
Trichoderma sp. - It is commonly found in soil, dead trees, pine needles,
paper, and unglazed ceramics. It often will grow on other fungi. It produces
antibiotics which are toxic to humans. It has been reported to be allergenic
(7, 17). It readily degrades cellulose. |
| |
| Trichophyton sp. - Can cause ring worm, athlete's
foot, skin, nail, beard, and scalp (5, 6). Reported to be allergenic. Found
on soil and skin. |
| |
| Trichothecium sp. - Aw (water activity) 0.90.
Conidia (spores) dimensions 12-23 x 8-10 microns. Found in decomposing vegetation,
soil, corn seeds, and in flour. The species Trichothecium roseum can produce
a trichothecene toxin which may be associated with disease in humans and
other animals. Reported to be allergenic. |
| |
| Tritirachium sp. - Reported to be allergenic. |
| |
U
Ulocladium sp. - Has an Aw (water activity) of 0.89. Isolated from dead
plants and cellulose materials. Found on textiles. |
| |
V
Verticillium sp. - Conidia (spores) dimensions 2.3-10 x 1-2.6 microns. Found
in decaying vegetation, on straw, soil, and arthropods. A rare cause of
corneal infections. |
| |
W
Wallemia sp. - Has an Aw (water activity) of 0.75. Conidia (spores) dimensions
2.5-3.5 microns. Found in sugary foods, salted meats, dairy products, textiles,
soil, hay, and fruits. |
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| X, still under construction |
| |
Y
Yeast - Various yeasts are commonly identified on air samples. Some yeasts
are reported to be allergenic. They may cause problems if a person has had
previous expos |
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 |
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