Fungal Hypersensitivity: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Therapy

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter is helpful for those clinical immunologists whose major professional activity is patient care. The chapter examines the scientific basis and efficacy of the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from exposure to high ambient levels of fungi in indoor environments. The best treatment for health problems arising from exposure to high fungal levels is prevention. A key prerequisite to prevention is education. Information about the nature of fungi—their presence in foods; their rapid proliferation after water intrusion in homes, workplaces, and schools; and their potential for health effects—must be made easily available to the general public. The Internet has already provided such information to millions who use computers. Insurance companies are excluding mold damage from the coverage provided in homeowner policies, and this may alert the homeowners to the danger and to their responsibility to move rapidly to minimize the effects of water leaks.