Literature Analysis on Stachybotrys chartarum and Connections to Sick Building Syndrome

Sick building syndrome is defined as components of infrastructure that are harmful to human health in various ways ranging from noxious, harmful building materials to toxic fungal contaminants (1). There is mounting emphasis on the need for healthy, sustainably developed buildings as the amount of scientific literature published about sick building syndrome increases. Specifically, there is growing attention regarding the presence of contaminant fungi in buildings and the possible adverse human health effects upon exposure (2). Further, the estimated prevalence of Canadian homes with indoor mold growth is pervasive due to unwanted moisture accumulation in building structures (3). Despite the increasing abundance of scientific research, the existing literature does refer to established knowledge gaps; this includes the need for more primary, quantitative research observing the health effects of indoor mold exposure (3). Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) is thought to induce a variety of respiratory, mucosal, and dermatological symptoms in humans (1, 3, 4). These symptoms may arise by direct exposure to spores, indirect exposure or hypersensitivity to fungal antigens, or exposure to mycotoxins which may make inhabitants of contaminated buildings chronically ill (3). Mycotoxins are metabolite products of molds, typically found in mold spores which are the agents of sexual reproduction. The pathogenesis of mold sickness varies from species to species, but all molds found indoors should be treated as a potential hazard risk due to the unknown range of possible consequences after exposure (5). A comprehensive literature review examining the potential health effects of black mold exposure will help to emphasize and articulate the need for employers and homeowners to prioritize building decontamination.