Glossary for Fungal infections

• APECED Syndrome: APECED is a recessively inherited genetic disease characterized by the presence of two of the following three conditions: impaired parathyroid function, yeast infection (candidiasis) and impaired adrenal gland function (Addison's disease). It is an autoimmune disease resulting from a genetic defect. The body's immune system malfunctions and attacks it's own body tissues.
• Absidia species poisoning: Absidia species is a type of fungus found in plant debris but is also common in the environment. Ingestion and other exposures to the chemical can cause various symptoms. The type and severity of symptoms varies depending on the amount of chemical involved and the nature of the exposure.
• Actinomycosis: An infection that results from the bacteria sp. Actinomyces.
• Aflatoxicosis: Poisoning from ingestion of aflatoxins.
• Aflatoxin B1 exposure: Aflatoxin B1 is a toxin produced by fungus from the Aspergillus genus. The toxin is carcinogenic in humans and can also cause other health effect, particularly liver problems. The fungus are found frequently in nature and can readily contaminate crops before harvest or during storage. It is common in moist soils and decaying vegetation. There are more than 13 different subtypes of aflatoxin with B1 being the most toxic. The condition is most common in poorly developed countries where there are insufficient controls on the presence of aflatoxin in food.
• Aflatoxin B1- Teratogenic Agent: Reports indicate that the use of Aflatoxin B1 during pregnancy may cause various harmful effects on the fetus. The likelihood and severity of symptoms may be affected by the level of exposure and the stage of pregnancy that the exposure occurred at. The effect on human fetuses has not been conclusively determined.
• Aflatoxin B2 exposure: Aflatoxin B2 is a toxin produced by fungus from the Aspergillus genus. The toxin is carcinogenic in humans and can also cause other health effect, particularly liver problems. The fungus are found frequently in nature and can readily contaminate crops before harvest or during storage. It is common in moist soils and decaying vegetation. There are more than 13 different subtypes of aflatoxin with B1 being the most toxic. The condition is most common in poorly developed countries where there are insufficient controls on the presence of aflatoxin in food.
• Aflatoxin G1 exposure: Aflatoxin G1 is a toxin produced by fungus from the Aspergillus genus. The toxin is carcinogenic in humans and can also cause other health effect, particularly liver problems. The fungus are found frequently in nature and can readily contaminate crops before harvest or during storage. It is common in moist soils and decaying vegetation. There are more than 13 different subtypes of aflatoxin with B1 being the most toxic. The condition is most common in poorly developed countries where there are insufficient controls on the presence of aflatoxin in food.
• Aflatoxin G2 exposure: Aflatoxin G2 is a toxin produced by fungus from the Aspergillus genus. The toxin is carcinogenic in humans and can also cause other health effect, particularly liver problems. The fungus are found frequently in nature and can readily contaminate crops before harvest or during storage. It is common in moist soils and decaying vegetation. There are more than 13 different subtypes of aflatoxin with B1 being the most toxic. The condition is most common in poorly developed countries where there are insufficient controls on the presence of aflatoxin in food.
• Aflatoxin exposure: Aflatoxins are toxins produced by fungus from the Aspergillus genus. The toxin is carcinogenic in humans and can also cause other health effect, particularly liver problems. The fungus are found frequently in nature and can readily contaminate crops before harvest or during storage. It is common in moist soils and decaying vegetation. There are more than 13 different subtypes of aflatoxin with B1 being the most toxic. The condition is most common in poorly developed countries where there are insufficient controls on the presence of aflatoxin in food.
• Agranulocytosis: Total lack of granulocytes in the blood
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: An allergic reaction to a particular fungus called Aspergillus.
• Alopecia: Various types of hair loss or balding
• Aspergillosis: Infection with a fungus called Aspergillus.
• Aspergillus niger infection: A rare fungal infection that often causes a black mould to appear on some fruit and vegetables but may also infect humans through inhalation of fungal spores.
• Athlete's foot: Fungal skin condition typically of feet or toes.
• Aureobasidium exposure: Aureobasidium is a type of fungus which is capable of causing a variety of diseases in humans. The fungus is most often found in damp places either inside the home or in the environment. It is often pinkish or blackish. It is a rare cause of disease and is more likely to occur in immunosuppressed patients. It can cause infection in just about any part of the body depending on the nature of the exposure (inhalation, wound, ingestion etc.) and as such the type and severity of symptoms can vary considerably.
• Aureobasidium pullulans exposure: Aureobasidium pullulans is a species of fungus which is capable of causing a variety of diseases in humans. The fungus is most often found in damp places either inside the home or in the environment. It is often pinkish or blackish. It is a rare cause of disease and is more likely to occur in immunosuppressed patients. It can cause infection in just about any part of the body depending on the nature of the exposure (inhalation, wound, ingestion etc.) and as such the type and severity of symptoms can vary considerably.
• Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy syndrome, type 1: A very rare autoimmune disorder characterized by autoimmune polyendocrinopathy (APE), candidiasis (C) and ectodermal dysplasia (ED).
• Baerensprung disease: Circular itchy patches that occur on the thighs as a result of fungal infection.
• Bagassosis -- Thermoactinomyces sacchari: Inhalation of sugarcane dust particles contaminated with fungus (Thermoactinomyces sacchari) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the contaminated sugarcane dust particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Barley Worker's disease -- Aspergillus spp.: Inhalation of barley particles contaminated with fungus (Aspergillus spp.) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne barley particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Beigel disease: A fungal hair disease where soft nodules form on hair shafts. The nodules may be white or black depending on which fungus is involved. The disease is most common in Europe, South America and the Orient. It occurs mainly in armpit or scalp hair but can also occur in pubic hair or facial hair.
• Biotinidase deficiency: A metabolic disorder where the body lacks the enzyme biotinidase needed to process the vitamin called biotin (vitamin H) into carboxylase enzymes.
• Black piedra: A fungal hair disease where soft black nodules form on hair shafts. The fungus involved is Trichosporum beigelii. The disease is most common in Europe, South America and the Orient. It occurs mainly in armpit or scalp hair but can also occur in pubic hair or facial hair.
• Blastomycosis: A fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis and resulting in lung, skin, bone and genitourinary involvement.
• Buruli ulcer: Infection by a bacterium called Mycobacterium ulcerans. The infection is most common in tropical and subtropical climates. The method of transmission is uncertain but the bacteria can enter the skin if it is broken (e.g. a cut) or it may possibly be transmitted by certain African aquatic insects or mosquitoes. The ulcers may become deep enough to affect the bone and can thus result in disability or deformity.
• Candidiasis: Fungal infection of moist areas such as mouth or vagina
• Candidiasis familial chronic mucocutaneous, autosomal dominant: A dominantly inherited condition characterized by poor immunity to fungal infections - particularly those caused by Candida albicans. Persistent fungal infections tend to affect the nails, skin or mucous membranes. The degree of severity is variable with some cases leading to fugal infection of the brain which is usually fatal.
• Candidiasis familial chronic mucocutaneous, autosomal dominant, with thyroid disease: A dominantly inherited condition characterized by poor immunity to fungal infections (particularly those caused by Candida albicans) as will as thyroid disease. Persistent fungal infections tend to affect the nails, skin or mucous membranes. The degree of severity is variable with some cases leading to fugal infection of the brain which is usually fatal.
• Candidiasis familial chronic mucocutaneous, autosomal recessive: A recessively inherited condition characterized by poor immunity to fungal infections - particularly those caused by Candida albicans. Persistent fungal infections tend to affect the nails, skin or mucous membranes. The degree of severity is variable with some cases leading to fugal infection of the brain which is usually fatal.
• Chromomycosis: A chronic fungal infection that occurs in tropical areas. The skin lesions tend to persist for long periods of time and may become cancerous in some cases.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Severe chronic fatigue disorder often following infection.
• Chronic Illness: Any form of continuing chronic illness.
• Claviceps purpurea poisoning: Claviceps purpurea is a type of fungus that can contaminate grains such as rye, wheat, oats and barely. Ingestion of contaminated foods can cause poisoning with the severity of symptoms varying depending on the amount consumed.
• Coal worker's pneumoconiosis: A lung disease caused by breathing in coal dust. The condition is generally associated with employees in the coal industry. Symptoms usually resolve when exposure to coal dust stops.
• Coccidioidomycosis: An infectious disease caused by a fungus called Coccidioides immitis which is found in the soil. Transmission usually occurs through inhalation but can rarely occur through the skin. Very rarely, infection can spread throughout the body to involve the skin, bones, joints, lungs and central nervous system which can be fatal if untreated.
• Cold & Flu:
• Conditions involving a pathogen: Medical conditions involving some type of pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria.
• Cryptococcal Meningitis: Cryptococcal meningitis is an infection of the meninges (the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), caused by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans.
• Cryptococcosis: A fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans which primarily affects the central nervous system and the lungs. People with weakened immune systems such as AIDS sufferers are generally more susceptible to this type of infection.
• Cutaneous Candidiasis: A condition which is characterized by a candida infection which occurs on the cutaneous surface
• Cutaneous mucormycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Cutaneous mucormycosis is very rare and involves infection of the skin.
• Cutaneous zygomycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales which are normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. The infection differs from mucormycosis which only involves the order Mucorales. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Cutaneous zygomycosis involves infection of the skin.
• Defective expression of HLA class 2: An inherited immunodeficiency disorder which reduces the body's ability to fight infection. Lack of treatment can result in infant death from infection.
• Diffuse palmoplantar keratoderma, Norrbotten dominant type: A rare disorder characterized by thickening of the skin on the palms and soles which is associated with frequent fungal infections.
• Distal lateral subungual onychomycosis: A fungal infection of the nail which tends to involve start under the nail where it separates from the nail bed. This is the most common form of onychomycosis and the toenails tend to be affected more than the fingernails.
• Endonyx onychomycosis: A fungal infection of the nail that tends to predominantly cause a white discoloration of the nail. There tends to be no damage to the nail apart from the discoloration and there is no damage to the nail bed.
• Farmer's lung: A condition that affects farmers who are exposed to mouldy hay or crops. The lungs become inflamed due to a hypersensitivity reaction to the exposure.
• Farmer's lung -- Micropolyspora faeni: Inhalation of moldy contaminated with bacteria (Micropolyspora faeni) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the bacteria in the moldy hay particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Fluconazole -- Teratogenic Agent: There is evidence to indicate that exposure to Fluconazole (an antifungal drug) during pregnancy may have a teratogenic effect on the fetus. A teratogen is a substance that can cause birth defects. The likelihood and severity of defects may be affected by the level of exposure and the stage of pregnancy that the exposure occurred at.
• Fungal meningitis: Fungal meningitis is an infection that causes swelling and irritation of the tissue around the brain and spinal cord. It usually strikes people whose weakened immune systems can't fight off infection. The disease is not common. but it can be very serious.
• Fungal nail infections: Fungal conditions of the toenail or fingernail
• Fungemia: The presence of fungi in the blood. Most commonly occurs in people with a compromised immune system. Other risk factors include dialysis, burns, diabetes and use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and steroids. The severity of symptoms is variable.
• Gastrointestinal Basidiobolomycosis: Very rare intestinal infection
• Gastrointestinal mucormycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Gastrointestinal mucormycosis is very rare and involves infection of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Gastrointestinal zygomycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales which are normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. The infection differs from mucormycosis which only involves the order Mucorales. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Gastrointestinal zygomycosis involves infection of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Granulocytopenia: Reduced number of granulocytes in the blood. Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell (neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils). White blood cells help protect the body from invading pathogen and hence act as the body's defense to infection.
• Green nail syndrome: A nail infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and sometimes Aspergillus. The infection tends to occur in women who spend a lot of time with their hands in soapy water or detergents. The nails develop varying patterns of greenish discoloration.
• Hair loss: Loss or thinning of head or body hair
• Hay Worker's disease -- Aspergillus spp.: Inhalation of hay particles contaminated with fungus (Aspergillus spp.) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne hay particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Histoplasma prostatic abscess: Prostatic abscess, which is an uncommon but well-described complication of acute bacterial prostatitis (ABP), is a potential indication for surgery.
• Histoplasmosis: Lung infection from fungus Histoplasma capsulatum
• Human carcinogen -- Aflatoxins: Exposure to aflatoxins is deemed to be carcinogenic to humans. The carcinogenicity of the substance may be influenced by the duration and level of exposure.
• Humidifier lung -- Penicillum spp.: Inhalation of humidifier vapors contaminated with a pathogen called (Penicillum spp.) can cause various lung symptoms in occupational settings. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the pathogens. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Intertrigo: Skin inflammation from rubbing together of two skin areas
• Invasive candidiasis: Severe fungal infection usually in immunocompromised persons
• Irons-Bhan syndrome: A very rare syndrome characterized mainly by lymphoedema in the legs, heart defects and a hydrocele (swollen testicles).
• Itraconazole -- Teratogenic Agent: There is evidence to indicate that exposure to Itraconazole (an antifungal drug) during pregnancy may have a teratogenic effect on the fetus. A teratogen is a substance that can cause birth defects. The likelihood and severity of defects may be affected by the level of exposure and the stage of pregnancy that the exposure occurred at.
• Kashin-Bek disease: A disease involving progressive joint degeneration which affects the spine and hands and feet. The condition becomes progressively worse and eventually leads to disability. The condition is most often seen in children who live in the northern parts of China, Siberia and Korea. A possible cause is believed to be eating cereals contaminated with a fungus called Sporotrichella.
• Kerion celsi: A parasitic fungal skin infection that tends to occur mainly on the back of the neck, scalp or beard. It is caused by animal fungi. The condition resolves itself in a matter of weeks but hair loss in the affected area may be permanent.
• Leishmaniasis: A rare infectious disease caused by any of a number of parasitic Leishmania species. Infection can cause any of three different manifestations: cutaneous leishmaniasis, mucosal leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis.
• Lung abscess: Pus (abscess) in the lung
• MHC class 1 or class 2 deficiency: An inherited immunodeficiency disorder involving a deficiency of class I and II major histocompatibility complexes. Serious infections can result.
• Malt Worker's disease: Inhalation of malt particles contaminated with fungus in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne malt particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Malt Worker's disease -- Aspergillus spp.: Inhalation of malt particles contaminated with fungus (Aspergillus spp.) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne malt particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Mold allergies: Allergies to airborne or household molds.
• Mold allergy: A mold allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a mold. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Mouldy shower curtain hypersensitivity pneumonitis: Inhalation of mold from mouldy shower curtains can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the wood dust. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Mucormycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses.
• Mushroom Worker's lung -- Micropolyspora faeni: Inhalation of mushroom particles and compost contaminated with bacteria (Micropolyspora faeni) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the bacteria in the airborne mushroom particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Mushroom Worker's lung -- Thermoactinomyces vulgaris: Inhalation of mushroom particles and compost contaminated with bacteria (Thermoactinomyces vulgaris) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the bacteria in the airborne mushroom particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Mycetoma: Any of a group of infections caused by actinomycetes (bacterial) or a fungus (eumycetoma). It causes a chronic, pus-producing infection under the skin and sometimes involves bone. The infection most often occurs in the feet. The infection is most common in arid and semi-arid parts of the world. Serious cases can require amputation of the bone.
• Mycosis fungoides: Mycosis fungoides is a rare form of T-cell lymphoma of the skin. The disease is typically slowly progressive and chronic.
• Mycosis fungoides, familial: A rare form of lymphatic cancer (T-cell lymphoma) that primarily affects the skin and tends to occur with higher than normal frequency within a family. The skin is affected first, then the lymph nodes become inflamed and usually cancerous. The cancer can then spread to organs such as the liver, lungs and bone marrow. Survival depends on how early treatment starts. Patients diagnosed in the early stages can survive more than 12 years whereas once the cancer has spread to other organs, death usually occurs within three years.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Aflatoxin: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a mycotoxin called Aflatoxin which is a toxin produced by some Aspergillus fungus. Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Cyclochlorotine: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a Mycotoxin called Cyclochlorotine which is a toxin produced by a particular fungus (Penicillium islandicum). Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Luteoskyrins: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a Mycotoxin called Luteoskyrin which is a toxin produced by a particular fungus (Penicillium islandicum). Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Ochratoxin: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a Mycotoxin called Ochratoxin. Ochratoxin is a toxin produced by a particular fungus (Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium verrucosum). It is a relatively common food contaminant and can be found in mouldy grain, pork, coffee and dried grapes. Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Rubratoxin: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a Mycotoxin called Rubratoxin. Rubratoxin is a toxin produced by a particular fungus (Penicillium rubrum and purpurogenum) which is most commonly found on cereal grains. Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Mycotoxin-induced liver damage -- Sterigmatocystin: Damage or injury to the liver caused by exposure to a Mycotoxin called Sterigmatocystin. It is a toxin produced by a particular fungus (Aspergillus). Sterigmatocystin may also increase the risk of developing liver cancer. Most likely sources of exposure are foods such as wheat, maize, hard cheese and green coffee beans contaminated with mould. Symptoms vary depending on the degree of exposure and hence extent of the liver damage or injury. Mild liver damage may cause few if any symptoms whereas severe damage can ultimately result in liver failure. Symptoms may be acute, subacute or chronic depending on the severity of the exposure. Factors such as age, race, gender, overall health and underlying liver problems may also influence a person's risk of developing liver problems and the severity of the symptoms. The toxin is also know to increase the risk of developing liver cancer.
• Myelofibrosis: A rare condition where progressive scarring or fibrosis of the bone marrow impairs it's ability to make blood cells causing symptoms such as anemia and liver and spleen enlargement.
• Neutropenia: Reduced number of granulocytes in the blood
• Nezelof's syndrome: An immune deficiency disorder where the cells that normally fight infection don't work properly and patients suffer frequent severe infections.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Alternaria: An Alternaria fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Alternaria. Alternaria is a common outdoor mold and can cause severe asthmatic symptoms as well as other allergy symptoms. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Aspergillus spp: An Aspergillus spp fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Aspergillus spp. Aspergillus is a common indoor and outdoor mold. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Aureobasidium (Pullularia): A Aureobasidium fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Aureobasidium. Aureobasidium is a common outdoor mold often found on paper, lumber and painted objects. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Candida albicans: A Candida albicans fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Candida albicans. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Cladosporium: A Cladosporium fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Cladosporium. Cladosporium is one of the most common outdoor airborne molds. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Epicoccum: An Epicoccum fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Epicoccum. Epicoccum tends to be found in grassland and agricultural areas. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Fusarium: A Fusarium fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Fusarium. Fusarium is often found on rotting plants. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Helminthosporium: A Helminthosporium fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Helminthosporium. Helminthosporium is a fungus found more often in warmer climates. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Mucor: A Mucor fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Mucor. Mucor is a relatively uncommon fungus but can be found on decaying vegetation and damp indoor areas. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Penicillium: A Penicillium fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Penicillium. Penicillium is a common indoor mold and allergy to this fungus is unrelated to a penicillin allergy. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Phoma: A Phoma fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Phoma. Phoma is an outdoor mold which is predominant during wet periods. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, Rhizopus: A Rhizopus fungus allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called Rhizopus. Rhizopus is relatively uncommon but can be found on decaying vegetation and damp indoor areas. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Non-Food Allergy -- fungus, smut: A smut allergy is an adverse reaction by the body's immune system to spores produced by a fungus called smut. Smut is common in agricultural areas. Symptoms tend to occur in a seasonal pattern as spore production by molds tends to increase and decrease with changes in seasons. The specific symptoms that can result can vary amongst patients.
• Nystatin -- Teratogenic Agent: There is evidence to indicate that exposure to Nystatin during pregnancy may have a teratogenic effect on the fetus. A teratogen is a substance that can cause birth defects. The likelihood and severity of defects may be affected by the level of exposure and the stage of pregnancy that the exposure occurred at.
• Ocular histoplasmosis syndrome: An uncommon eye complication from lung histoplasmosis.
• Onchyomycosis: A fungal infection of the nail. The toenails tend to be affected more than the fingernails.
• Opportunistic infections related to HIV infection: it usually occurs when the CD4 cell count drops to less than 200cells/mm.
• Oral thrush: Candida fungal infection of the mouth.
• Paprika splitter's lung -- Mucor Stolonifer: Inhalation of paprika dust contaminated with a pathogen (Mucor Stolonifer) in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the contaminated paprika dust. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Paracoccidioidomycosis: Infection by the fungus Paracoccidiodes brasiliensis which usually affects the lungs but can also involve the skin, mucous membranes, lymphatic system and other parts of the body.
• Paronychia: Skin infection of a nail
• Penile candidiasis: Uncommon yeast infection of male genitals.
• Phaeohyphomycosis: An opportunistic infection that is caused by dermatiaceous fungi
• Pityriasis Versicolor: Fungal skin infection
• Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia: Pneumonia common as an opportunistic infection of AIDS.
• Pneumocystosis: Infection of the lung by a fungal organism called pneumocystis Carinii. The organism is found readily in most environments but generally does not affect healthy individuals. It occurs almost exclusively in immunocompromised people such as AIDS sufferers or those undergoing chemotherapy.
• Pneumocytosis: A pneumonia caused by a fungal infection
• Possible human carcinogenic exposure -- Aflatoxin M1: Some evidence indicates that exposure to Aflatoxin M1 has a possible link to an increased risk of developing cancer in humans. The carcinogenicity of the substance may be influenced by the duration and level of exposure. The substance appears to be linked primarily to increased risk of liver cancers. Exposure is most likely to occur through the consumption of milk products that has come from animals which have consumed contaminated feed.
• Possible human carcinogenic exposure -- Griseofulvin: Some evidence indicates that exposure to Griseofulvin (an antifungal drug) has a possible link to an increased risk of developing cancer in humans. The carcinogenicity of the substance may be influenced by the duration and level of exposure.
• Proximal subungual onychomycosis: A fungal infection of the nail which tends to start at the nail fold and affects new nail growth. The infection starts on the top of the nail and then spreads deeper into the nail. This form of onychomycosis tends to occur primarily in AIDS patients.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition where the defective immune system causes skin cells to grow rapidly. It affects a significant number of people. Arthritis, which can be severe, is associated with the psoriasis in up to a third of cases. Not all patients who are susceptible to the condition will develop it - roughly 10% of those susceptible will actually develop the condition. There are various environmental factors which can trigger the onset of the disease e.g. strep throat (common trigger), some medication, stress and cold weather. Once the disease develops, it may resolve on its own or with treatment or may become a persistent chronic condition. The severity and duration of symptoms is variable.
• Pulmonary mucormycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Pulmonary mucormycosis involves infection of the lungs.
• Pulmonary zygomycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Pulmonary zygomycosis involves infection of the lungs.
• Pulp Worker's disease: Inhalation of pulp particles contaminated with fungus in an occupational setting (paper mill industry) can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne pulp particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Pulp Worker's disease -- Alternaria spp.: Inhalation of pulp particles contaminated with fungus (Alternaria spp.) in an occupational setting (e.g. paper mill industry) can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the fungus in the airborne wood pulp particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Pustules: Small elevated pus containing lesion of the skin
• Rash: General name for any type of skin inflammation.
• Renal mucormycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the order Mucorales which is normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Renal mucormycosis is very rare and involves infection of the kidneys.
• Renal zygmycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales which are normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. The infection differs from mucormycosis which only involves the order Mucorales. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Renal zygomycosis involves infection of the kidneys.
• Reticuloendotheliosis: An inherited disorder of the reticuloendothelial system which is involved in destroying bacteria and other unwanted substances that enter the body.
• Rhino-orbito-cerebral phycomycosis: Fungal infection of the brain, nose and brain. Infection usually occurs through inhalation of fungal spores and the condition is result in rapid death. It tends to occur in severely ill patients such as those suffering from severe diabetes, carcinomatosis, ketoacidosis or bacterial infections.
• Rhinocerebral mucormycosis: A rare opportunistic infection that tends to occur mainly in the brain and sinuses. The condition is usually fatal and generally only affects immunocompromised people such as patients with leukemia, lymphoma or those that have had organ transplants or chemotherapy. The infectious agent is saprophytic fungi.
• Rhinocerebral zygomycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales which are normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. The infection differs from mucormycosis which only involves the order Mucorales. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Rhinocerebral zygomycosis involves infection of the paranasal sinuses and the central nervous system.
• Rhinosporidiosis: An infectious disease caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi which occurs mainly in the nasal cavity or nearby mucosa-lined structures such as the conjunctiva. On rare occasions other parts of the body may be infected e.g. genital, rectum, ear and skin. The infection tends to persist for long periods of time (sometimes decades) and occasionally secondary bacterial infection can occur. Infection usually occurs through exposure to stagnant water contaminated with the infectious agent.
• Rhizopus: A genus of fungus
• Sarcoidosis: Rare autoimmune disease usually affecting the lungs.
• Sassoon hospital syndrome: An epidemic disease caused by a type of fungus (Rhizopus nigricans) found on millet grains.
• Sporotrichosis: A fungal skin infection caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. Usually only the skin is infected but bones, lungs and central nervous system can rarely be affected also. Transmission usually occurs through infection of a skin wound.
• Sporotrichosis -- disseminated: A fungal infection caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. Usually only the skin is infected but rarely it can spread to other parts of the body such as the bones and even the brain and central nervous system. The condition usually originates from fungal infection of a skin wound or from inhaling the fungus and can be life-threatening.
• Stachybotrys chartarum: A toxic black slimy mold that can be found in damp indoor environments. Exposure can occur through the skin, ingestion or inhalation. It can causes conditions such as "sick building syndrome".
• Suberosis: Inhalation of cork particles contaminated with mould in an occupational setting can cause various lung symptoms. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the duration of the exposure. The lung symptoms result from the body's immune system reacting to exposure to the mould in the airborne cork particles. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive lung symptoms which can gradually lead to symptoms such as weight loss and eventually lung scarring and possibly even respiratory failure in severe cases. Acute exposure results in symptoms such as fever, chills, shortness of breath and body aches.
• Systemic candidiasis: A candida infection that spreads throughout the body. If it invades major organs such as the brain and heart, death may result. It is rare in healthy individuals and tends to occur in immunocompromised individuals. The disorder is difficult to diagnose as it can invade almost any organ of the body and hence the symptoms are hugely variable.
• Thrush: Thrush is a fungal infection which is caused by a fungus from the Candida species. It usually affects the mucus membranes of the mouth and vagina. Occasionally the infection can spread throughout the body and cause severe illness.
• Tinea: A general term for various fungal skin afflictions; often incorrectly called ringworm.
• Tinea capitis: A condition which is characterized by tinea of the scalp
• Tinea corporis: A condition which is characterized by tinea of glabrous skin
• Tinea cruris: Red, scaly rash in groin and upper thigh area; usually found in men and due to fungal infection
• Tinea unguium: A condition which is characterized by tinea of the nails
• Tinea versicolor: A condition which is characterized by a chronic noninflammatory multiple macular patches
• Torulopsis: A type of yeast infection caused by Torulopsis glabrata. The fungus is often found in normal healthy skin, respiratory system, genitourinary system and gastrointestinal system and it generally only becomes a problem in weakened or immunocompromised people. They type of symptoms are determined by where and how severe the infection is.
• Trichosporin infection: A very rare infectious disease caused by the Trichosporon species. This type of infection tends to be opportunistic and hence only affects patients who are immunocompromised - patients with blood cancers appear to be the most prone. The infection may be localized or spread throughout the body (disseminated) which is usually fatal. Symptoms and severity may vary considerably depending on the location and extent of the infection.
• Trichosporon: A genus of fungi that are normal flora of the respiratory and digestive tract
• Tuberculosis: Bacterial infection causing nodules forming, most commonly in the lung.
• Vaginal candidiasis: Fungal infection of the vagina, sometimes called thrush.
• White piedra: A fungal hair disease where soft white nodules form on hair shafts. The fungus involved is Piedraia hortai. The disease is most common in Europe, South America and the Orient. It occurs mainly in armpit or scalp hair but can also occur in pubic hair or facial hair.
• White superficial Onychomycosis: A fungal infection of the nail which starts on the surface of the nail and then spreads through the nail.
• Zygomycosis: An infectious disease caused by fungus from the orders Mucorales and Entomophthorales which are normally found in the soil and in decaying plant matter. The infection differs from mucormycosis which only involves the order Mucorales. Transmission is usually through the inhalation of spores. It is generally harmless to healthy individuals but can cause infection in patients who are immunocompromised or who have a serious chronic illness such as uncontrolled diabetes. Symptoms and severity can vary considerable depending on the part of the body the infection occurs in - gastrointestinal tract, skin, lungs, central nervous system, eye orbit and the paranasal sinuses.

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