Fungus Cladosporium herbarum: what is the danger, symptoms

Cladosporium is a genus of molds that includes more than 770 species with unique characteristics and distribution areas.

According to Wikipedia, the most common are 150 species of fungus of the genus Cladosporium.

Some species are able to live indoors, while others require open air to reproduce. The general conditions for active life of all species are the presence of moisture .

The m2 species of fungus Cladosporium Herbarum (Herbarum cladospora) mainly reproduces on vegetables and cereals. Its particles are distributed in the air during the growing season of plants.

In tropical conditions, the number of Cladosporium herbarum particles in the air is 90% of all microorganism spores.

What is a fungus

Considering what it is - Cladosporium Herbarum, it is worth saying that herbal cladosporium is a saprophyte that feeds not only on organic compounds, but also on waste products of other organisms, decomposing fatty tissues containing a set of amino acids, proteins, and carbohydrates necessary for reproduction.

The danger of infection lies in the ability of the fungus to parasitize on any type of organic compounds. It is easily transported by air masses, forms microspores all year round, and does not die at subzero temperatures. The fungus grows through mycelium threads and affects all organic tissue, penetrating deep inside.

Inside the human body, damage to internal organs and inflammation of damaged tissues occurs. The parasite leads to the occurrence of cancer. The microorganism itself is an antigen, and there is no process of a person becoming accustomed to a parasitic pest that takes away strength and health.

Peculiarities

Most people don't understand what Cladosporium Herbarum is. The mold reproduces by forming microscopic spores from spring to autumn, reaching a maximum in summer and exceeding the concentration of pollen grains of flowering plants by thousands of times.

The air mass in the warm season in urban conditions contains more than three thousand microspores per cubic meter of this species alone. The proliferation of mold fungi continues all year round, reaching maximum values in winter and autumn in apartment conditions, and outdoors from spring to autumn.

Spores are found even in high mountain areas, which indicates the ability to reproduce at low ambient temperatures. The formation of microspores actively occurs in a humid environment, and their spread is greater in a dry environment.

Toxicity group

Сladosporium herbarum is part of a group of molds that are highly toxic when exposed to the human body. The same group includes:

Penicillium notatum is a green-blue fungal mold that can cause bronchial asthma;
Aspergillus fumigatus – black rot, causes allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis;
Alternaria alternata is a gray mold that can cause allergic reactions.

The fungus contains aflatoxin, which is a hepatocarcinogen . When a large dose of this substance enters the human body, there is a risk of developing tumors.

Appearance

Under a microscope, a fungus of the genus Cladosporium looks like a tree with branches consisting of spores.

The trunk of the tree is brown or pale olive; the crown consists of branched chains of conidia, giving the impression of lateral branches.

Colonies of Cladosporium herbatum are olive green.

The mycelium is protected by melanin pigments, which determine resistance to radiation, so the fungus actively reproduces in almost any conditions.

Development conditions and habitat

In the warm season, the Cladosporium mushroom lives in plants, fallen leaves and soil, its spores actively fly through the air .

The rapid growth and spread of fungal spores occurs with a combination of above-zero temperatures and high humidity. Characteristic habitats and breeding places of the fungus:

containers for products;
garbage bins;
upholstery and carpets;
flower pots;
bathroom curtains and walls;
synthetic wallpaper;
air conditioner filters;
kitchen surfaces.

In nature, mold prefers to settle on plant debris, fallen leaves, and tree trunks.

This mushroom is a frequent guest in residential premises, especially on the first floors and in corner apartments.

Reproduction

The main danger of Cladosporium mold is its ability to spread through the air. Fungal spores and its fragments easily penetrate into premises and quickly take root in the above-mentioned places. For active growth of fungus, good humidity is needed. The ideal location is soil and leaves rotting in the fall. Signs of fungal infection are clearly visible on the leaves; they acquire a light brown pigment in the form of spots on the surface of the plant.

Reasons for appearance

Fungal spores spread very easily, just a small breeze is enough. The main danger is diseased plants and their undestroyed remains.

The mushroom is insidious. It retains its viability on dry tops and in soil for up to 10 months. Easily tolerates dryness and severe frost.

Transported with dust or successfully surviving the winter, the pathogens spread to healthy tomatoes. It is not necessary that the plant be damaged. The main conditions are high humidity and comfortable temperature. It takes 12-14 days from infection to the appearance of the first signs of cladosporiosis .

Allergy to mushrooms

Cladosporium herbarum, allergy – many people associate these concepts with each other. Yes, a special type of mold fungi causes allergic reactions that do not occur in all people, but in those who are hypersensitive to mold.

The list of hypersensitivity is headed by children, the elderly, especially those with chronic respiratory diseases - asthmatics, people who often suffer from bronchitis.

Infectious diseases caused by fungi are especially dangerous for those whose bodies are weakened due to impaired functioning of the immune system. These are not only HIV-infected people, but also people who have undergone surgery, intensive antibiotic therapy, etc.

Conditions for the development of allergies from mold fungi:

acute decrease in immunity or the presence of a disorder of the immune system;
childhood, pregnancy;
long-term lack of nutrients and valuable substances for the body;
prolonged illness or therapy;
a large number of colonies of mold fungi in the living room;
insufficient personal hygiene and poor sanitation in the home;
the presence of several favorable factors for the development of allergic reactions;
increased individual sensitivity to allergic diseases or fungi of this kind.

In addition, allergies can occur as a secondary factor in the case of another infectious disease.

In any case, if allergic reactions such as:

cough;
suffocation;
nausea;
vomit;
diarrhea;
runny nose;
sore throat;
hyperthermia;
swelling;
hives.

You should contact an allergist or, initially, a therapist to find out the cause of the disease. The allergy in this case is episodic or acute, suddenly disappearing and renewing with renewed vigor for no apparent reason.

There is also a direct connection between the functioning of the nervous and endocrine systems of the human body and allergic reactions. Disruption of these functions creates the preconditions for hypersensitivity of the immune system to various allergens, including fungal mold.

At the same time, false allergies, which occur when infected with fungal spores, are inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract - bronchi, lungs, asthmatic manifestations.

Allergic asthma, unlike an independent disease, is insensitive to conservative therapy.

Therefore, at the beginning of therapy with antiallergenic drugs, it is worth understanding that for recovery it is important to know the exact cause, and not to neglect diagnosis.

Description

Allergy is a state of increased sensitivity of the human body in relation to a specific substance or substances (allergens), which develops with repeated exposure to these substances. The physiological mechanism of allergies is the formation of antibodies to allergens in the body, which leads to an increase in its sensitivity. As a result of the interaction of the allergen, which is an antigen, and antibodies or sensitized cells, an allergic reaction develops.

Immunoglobulins, blood cells, circulating immune complexes, and biologically active substances take part in this reaction. In clinical practice, allergic reactions are understood as manifestations that are based on an immunological conflict.

Molds are part of house dust and are found almost everywhere. They are found both in human homes and in the external environment, being, together with plant pollen, the most significant aeroallergens. Mold and its spores, together with other microorganisms (viruses, bacteria), are found in the air of any room.

Manifestations of allergies to mushrooms are varied - it can be a runny nose, sneezing attacks or difficulty breathing that occurs in damp, mold-infected rooms; These are various types of food allergies; these are allergic complications of fungal skin diseases and allergic dermatoses themselves (urticaria, eczema).

Cladospora grassa (fungal mold) is the most common type of mold, one of the most common colonizers of dying and dead plants. It occurs in a variety of soil types and on foodstuffs. This type of mold is often found in unwashed refrigerators, food products, damp window frames, poorly ventilated buildings, thatched roofs, and low, damp areas.

Indoor spore concentrations are highly correlated with outdoor concentrations. Depending on climate conditions, spores may begin to appear in the atmosphere in the spring and peak in late summer or early fall. Dry spores are easily airborne. Cladosporium has pronounced antigenic properties. If inhaled, it can lead to the development of allergic diseases - rhinitis, bronchial asthma and pneumonitis.

The analysis is performed using the ImmunoCAP technique (Immunofluorescence on three-dimensional porous solid phase, Phadia 250, Phadia).

Allergy is a state of increased sensitivity of the human body towards a specific substance or substances (allergens).

Symptoms

Cladosporiosis, which manifests itself when microscopic particles of the fungus enter the respiratory system, can cause bronchial asthma and pulmonary pneumonia. It is determined by the following symptoms:

burning, redness of the mucous membrane of the eyes and nose;
redness of the whites of the eyes, nasal mucosa;
conjunctivitis;
skin rash accompanied by itching and swelling;
allergic rhinitis, lacrimation;
cough, sneezing;
hard breath;
bronchospasm;

Symptoms of allergic fungal sinusitis:

• Constant nasal congestion • Postnasal drip syndrome • Recurrent headaches The situation is worse when volatile compounds of Cladosporium provoke narrowing of the lumen of the bronchi and asthmatic attacks. The symptoms of fungal asthma can be very severe, and inhalers are sometimes ineffective.

Diagnostics

The main goal of diagnosis is to identify the increased sensitivity of the human body to allergy triggers and determine the degree of sensitivity of the respiratory system to the effects of each allergen. Allergists and mycologists deal with these tasks. There are three main diagnostic methods:

Name of diagnostic method	Description of the diagnostic method
Blood test for antibodies and immunoglobulins class E	Using this analysis, it is possible to identify the presence of allergies in a person when it is necessary to distinguish allergy symptoms from, for example, chronic rhinitis. Helps identify parasites. Determines the body's resistance, i.e. immune status.
In vivo	For this test, a skin test is taken. The analysis is a test to assess the state of sensitization to a specific allergen.
IgG antibody testing	This is a blood test for antibodies that is performed to clarify the diagnosis of certain infections or to determine the general health of the immune system.

Where can I get tested?

For addresses of medical centers where you can order a study, please call 8-800-100-363-0 All CITILAB medical centers in Moscow >>

What is the Cladosporium mushroom?

The fungus Cladosporium herbarum reproduces in soil and foliage during the warm season. Spores or fragments of mold fungus spread by air, entering premises and settling in dust. For its rapid growth, constant moisture is required. Places of location and growth of Cladosporium include:

food storage containers;
garbage containers;
air conditioners;
flower pots;
upholstery of upholstered furniture;
synthetic wallpaper;
damp and cold surfaces;
curtains in bathrooms or showers.

In the presence of constant humidity, the Cladosporium fungus can grow even on plain paper.

Symptoms of the disease

Molds affect the respiratory system.
Microscopic molds are both external and internal sources of allergic reactions. Cladosporium herbarum is easily and quickly airborne. Entering the human body through the respiratory tract, they cause:

burning of the mucous membrane of the organs of vision;
redness of the eyeball;
severe lacrimation;
runny nose;
cough, sneezing;
difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;
bronchospasm.

Treatment of fungal allergies

Cladosporiosis is unstable, the disease can actively manifest itself or be dormant. The patient needs to take preventive measures. To do this, it is necessary to regularly clean the living space using antiseptic and antimycotic agents and prevent moisture. Pay special attention to the bathroom with toilet.

As for the treatment of fungal allergies, it is carried out strictly under the supervision of a doctor. After confirming the diagnosis, the patient will be prescribed antifungal and antihistamines, drugs that relieve the symptoms of the disease, for example, drops or sprays to relieve inflammation from the mucous membrane. The patient must understand that without destroying the fungal allergen, treatment will not bring good and quick results.

How to get rid of it?

The presence of products for mold and mildew on the walls in the retail chain requires measures for frequent wet and thorough cleaning of premises with antifungal drugs and reagents that prevent sporulation.

This involves washing out the affected area of the bathroom, ventilating and organizing constant ventilation through exhaust ducts, and through ventilation of the home. It is recommended to eliminate leaks from taps and pipes and dry out all areas of high humidity in living areas and food storage areas.

The use of forced exhaust to remove steam in bathrooms and food preparation areas, wiping work surfaces dry, and keeping the ventilation ducts of multi-story buildings closed with special filters will prevent the appearance of cladosporiosis - brown spot.

Reducing the number of hours your air conditioner runs, removing spoiled food, frequently changing dish towels and dish sponges, using disposable trash bags, and emptying and sanitizing your trash can will also help.

It is recommended to dry clothes outside the living room, in a ventilated area. You should not burn fallen tree leaves near residential buildings, and do not allow smoke to enter residential premises.

The quantity and quality of household chemicals should be reviewed taking into account the manifestation of allergic reactions in family members. Hypoallergenic washing powders, dishwashing detergents, cleaning powders and pastes, shampoos with natural ingredients should replace the chemical concentrates that fill residential apartments.

Among the popular remedies for mold and mildew on walls, such as “Dali”, “Fongifluid Alpa”, “Olympus Stop-Mold” and others are suitable.

Human use

There are hundreds of species and strains of the mold genus, some of them are cultivated by people using biomaterial to obtain the enzyme.

It is used:

in cheese making to add taste, smell and color to exquisite types of cheese;
In winemaking, special technology is used to improve the taste of some wines.

And the fact that the well-known antibiotics Penicillin or Cyclosporin are made from mold is not worth mentioning twice.

But, like a coin, everything has a downside.

The negative properties of mold are not inferior to the positive ones; the fungus causes allergic reactions and onychomycosis.

Toxicity

In addition, molds are toxic, some of the strains are especially dangerous for humans - for example, T-2.

T-2

This dangerous toxin is considered a biological weapon. Wheat grains or flour from them infected with the fungus, when consumed by humans or animals, lead to severe poisoning and at the same time weaken the immune system, causing aleukia.

Aleukia is a disorder of the immune system, a decrease in the level of leukocytes in the blood to a pathological level, at which the body’s susceptibility to bacteria, fungi and viral infections increases.

Aflatoxin

Aflatoxin is a hepatocarcinogen. This means that if a certain dose of this substance enters the body, liver damage occurs and there is a very serious risk of malignant tumors.

Removing and preventing mold in the home

If cladosporium has invaded your home, it is better to remove the fungus immediately.

Don't expect problems, especially if there are small children living in the house. Mold is sensitive to treatment with vinegar solution, copper sulfate, bleaches, and construction agents against fungus. When treating large surfaces, it is necessary to take precautions - mold particles are very allergenic. Before you begin, remove or securely cover furniture, dishes, personal hygiene items, children's clothes and toys. Wear protective clothing, a mask and rubber gloves. Abroad, professionals seal rooms with film and connect exhaust equipment to prevent mold from spreading to other rooms. If Cladosporium has taken a fancy to your carpet or soft corner, it is easier to throw it away.

To prevent mold in your home, follow these simple rules:

• Fix leaks in a timely manner • Use antifungal paints • Do not store things in damp places • Dry the air in basements and bathrooms • Install air filters

Recommendations

Special diets that strengthen the immune system help increase the body's defenses against mold invasion. It is recommended to avoid frequent consumption of foods containing mold fungi, hard cheeses, beer drinks, champagne wines, smoked foods, rich yeast dough, sugar and others that undergo fermentation during cooking.

It is impossible to completely avoid contact with spores of the fungus Cladosporium Herbarum (what it is is discussed above), but measures to reduce the content of allergens in the home are directly related to reducing the severity of allergic and oncological diseases in humans.

Allergy

Household polyvalent allergies are spreading to an increasing number of people and pets. Diagnosing allergic reactions is becoming more and more difficult every year.

The decay products of the fungus act on the human body as a strong allergen, which Cladosporium Herbarum is.

The body constantly resists the penetration of foreign antibodies inside, signaling the appearance of hypersensitivity through sneezing, runny nose, swelling, and inflammation. With the help of sneezing, the nasopharynx tries to push spores out; during a runny nose, trapped microorganisms are removed with mucus formed in order to protect the respiratory organs from damage. As the body temperature rises, there is an invisible competition between the hemoglobin cells in the blood and the antigen that has entered inside.