Pulmonary Mycotoxicosis

Abstract

Mycotoxicosis is a term used to define a toxic reaction due to the ingestion of toxins produced by fungi. Oral ingestion, however, may not be the sole means of exposure. We have recently observed ten patients who had inhaled massive amounts of fungi, which resulted in an apparent toxic pulmonary reaction. Immunologic studies showed no sensitivity to various fungal antigen preparations and histologic study of the lung showed a multi-focal acute process, with primary involvement of the terminal bronchioles containing large numbers of various spores. Cultures from lung biopsy material revealed at least five fungal organisms. A one to ten year followup indicates that avoidance of massive reexposure to fungal dust is the key to the prevention of recurrent pulmonary mycotoxicosis.

Characterization of exposure to molds and actinomycetes in agricultural dusts by scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and the culture method.

“…Thi s relat ionship can be illustrated by the association with climati c and enviro nmental factors promot ing growth of microorganisms (1, 2) and by direct measurements (3). Exposure to very high concentrations of microorgani sms may ca use a to xic febrile reacti on (I , 4,5,6) even in apparently non sensitized subjects (organic dust tox ic syndrome).…”

Mushroom Compost Worker's Lung

“…24 have reported an acute respiratory illness with marked systemic upset. Culture of lung biopsy from one patient yielded 5 different fungi.…”

Causes of Indoor Air Quality Problems in Schools: Summary of Scientific Research

“…Although the vast majority of mycotoxin studies have involved foods, some intoxications [e.g., "atypical farmers lung," studied by Emanuel, Wenzel, and Lawton (1975)] appear to involve inhalation of mycotoxincontaining dust and/or spores (Jarvis 1990). …”