MOULDS IN THE INDOOR ENVIRONMENT AND POSSIBLE HEALTH EFFECTS

• Main Authors: Simona Perčič, Peter Otorepec, Andreja Kukec
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Slovenian Medical Association 2016-01-01
• Series: Zdravniški Vestnik
• Subjects: moulds/fungi; immune- medited effects; infections; micotoxins; epidemiology; recommendation
• Online Access: http://vestnik.szd.si/index.php/ZdravVest/article/view/1327
• ISSN: 1318-0347; 1581-0224

<p>Moulds are multicellular fungi that are ubiquitous in indoor and outdoor environment. Exposure to moulds can occur through inhalation, ingestion, and touching mouldy surfaces. Adverse health effects may occur through allergic, infectious, irritant, and toxic processes. In our review we elucidated some possible harmful mechanisms of moulds on the health of the population and some preventive recommendation. A systematic literature review was carried out in two bibliographic databases, Science Direct and PubMed, in the period from 1985 to February 2015. We systematically observed also the internet pages from CDC (Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Out of websites we accepted the roles for recommendation in case of moulds indoor buildings. Epidemiological studies all over the world have shown associated mould sensitivity, with the development, persistence and severity of asthma and other respiratory allergic diseases. Recent studies suggest that host immune response to environmental moulds and genetic factors may play an important role in the development of allergic respiratory diseases. This new knowledge could help us to prevent and cure these diseases. There are also studies about the potential toxic reactions to the micotoxins. The prevention of developing moulds in indoor environment is still the most important for the well-being of all population.</p>