A Large Case-series of Successful Treatment of Patients Exposed to Mold and Mycotoxin

Abstract

Purpose: The goal of this study was to present the results of treatment of 100 chemically sensitive and chronically mold-exposed patients, who continued to be disabled even after decontamination of their houses or work places or they were physically removed from their sources of mold.

Methods: Molds were identified, serum anti-mold immunoglobulin G antibodies were measured, patients were skin-tested, immunologic abnormalities were recorded, and objective neurologic tests were performed in a subset of patients.

Findings: Patient sensitivities and exposures were confirmed by measuring serum immunoglobulin G anti-mold antibodies, intradermal skin testing, and trichothecene toxin breakdown products in the urine. Patients were positive (44%-98%) for individual molds. Abnormalities in T and B cells were found in >80% of patients. Respiratory signs were present in 64% of all patients, and physical signs and symptoms of neurologic dysfunction were present in 70%. Objective autonomic nervous system test results were abnormal in almost 100% of patients tested. Objective neuropsychological evaluations were conducted in 46 of the patients who exhibited symptoms of neurologic impairment and showed typical abnormalities in short-term memory, executive function/judgment, concentration, and hand/eye coordination. Patients (N = 100) with documented mold exposure were divided into 3 groups: (1) those who improved easily, with mold avoidance and antigen injections; (2) those who improved after desensitization to their mold antigens plus additional mycotoxin antigens; and (3) those who had their regular mold antigens, additional mycotoxin antigens, along with regimens that included sauna, oxygen therapy, and nutrients. Approximately 85% of all patients cleared completely; 14% had partial improvement, and 1% remained unchanged.

Implications: Exposure to molds has been increasingly recognized as a major reason for patients presenting with multiple organ symptoms that could not otherwise be explained. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment could be very successful.

Keywords: immunologic; mold; mycotoxins; neurologic; sauna.