Mold, Mycotoxins, and their Effects in Children

Children are increasingly affected by exposure to molds and mycotoxins in indoor environments. Climate change, with more frequent floods, hurricanes, and extreme weather, has accelerated mold growth in homes, schools, and public buildings, posing particular risks to children whose immune systems may not yet be fully competent to handle the toxic and antigenic effects. A Harvard University study of 13,369 children aged 8 to 12 across 24 communities in North America found mold growth in 22% to 54% of households, with asthma symptoms in 3% to 11% of children. Studies from Russia, Poland, and Spain have linked childhood mold exposure to asthma, bronchitis, IQ deficits, and decreased cognitive scores. Mycotoxins can be absorbed via the nasal mucosa, lungs, and skin, and can be transported via the olfactory nerve to enter the brain. In children, mycotoxicosis presents with a variety of nonspecific clinical signs including conjunctivitis, epistaxis, cough, wheezing, apnea, nausea, vomiting, and rashes. In severe cases, acute pulmonary hemorrhage, bone marrow failure, and recurrent apnea have been reported. The paper reviews the clinical manifestations of mold exposure in children, the vulnerability of school buildings to indoor air quality problems, and the growing evidence linking mycotoxin exposure to neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder. The World Health Organization has designated mycotoxin-related disease as “the Great Masquerader” of the 21st century due to its ability to mimic numerous other conditions in both children and adults.