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Black Mold Invasive Disease

A Mayo Clinic Study in 1999 found that 37 million Americans suffer chronic sinus infections as a result of mold. "Black mold" is a catch-all term used to describe black and slimy molds. However, the term also refers to toxic strains of mold that can cause invasive disease.

  1. Types

    • According to the Toxic Black Mold Information Center, invasive disease is associated with common fungi like Aspergillus, Cladosporium and Mucor. However, the toxic mold Stachybotrys chartarum, or "black mold," is the leading cause of invasive disease.

    Exposure

    • Top mold inspectors, AMI, report that Black Mold is mostly found in moist areas around water-soaked wood and insulation. Exposure can come from physical contact, inhalation and open cuts.

    High Risk

    • Infants, pregnant women, elderly people, and people with weak immune systems are all at a high risk for contracting black mold-related illnesses.

    Opportunistic Infection

    • Black mold invasive disease is uncommon and known as an opportunistic infection. It primarily affects weakened immune systems such as individuals with HIV/AIDS or those recovering from transplants or chemotherapy.

    Early Detection

    • Black mold invasive disease can be detected by measuring a person's white blood cell count for hyper-activity, analyzing lung function with a spirometric test, and taking an allergic skin prick test.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness and fatigue. More serious lung conditions can occur from extended periods of exposure.

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