In 1993 when Tomasita Gallegos was 37 years old she first consulted Dr. Elliott. At that time she was frightened, in a state of severe agitation, and somewhat disoriented. Her face was bright red; her mouth showed increased salivation; her eyes were watery with constricted pupils; and her skin was warm to the touch. She was referred to Dr. Elliott by another physician, who felt she might have experienced a pesticide exposure.
Ms. Gallegos was employed as a housekeeper in a private home. The morning of the day she became ill, she was instructed to clean the guest house, which had been recently occupied. Shortly after the patient entered the guest house, she became acutely ill with the above-mentioned symptoms. After the acute symptoms subsided, she was left with multiple problems, including chronic fatigue, panic attacks, chest pains, headaches, memory loss, and extreme chemical sensitivity. Her constellation of symptoms was baffling since it was determined that no harmful chemicals had been used on the premises.
An environmental engineering company was consulted to evaluate the guest house. Upon removing the furnace and cooling coils to allow access for a thorough cleaning of the ductwork system, the consultant found approximately two inches of water with green slime at the bottom of the supply plenum. Because the area was dark and cool and in the direct airstream of the house ductwork, the spread of microorganisms was very likely. Close inspection revealed that a defective humidification system was the source of the leaking water. Most of the microbial agents were fungi that, although found widely in nature, were highly concentrated in the interior environment. Many fungi produce toxic compounds called mycotoxins. The intense microbial exposure had the effect of sensitizing the patient, leaving her with an overreactive immune system, commonly known as environmental illness. At present, with diligent avoidance of molds, toxic chemicals, and allergens, Ms. Gallegos is slowly beginning to regain her health.
Discussion
Whywasthispatientso severely affected from such a brief exposure? The type of mold was a particularly virulent species. In addition, some individuals are more susceptible to fungal contaminants than others. If the detoxification pathway in the liver is already at maximum capacity, it might take only a relatively small exposure to overwhelm the system. This theory is called the rain barrel effect and refers to total toxic load. When more toxins enter the "barrel" than the body can excrete, the barrel overflows and symptoms develop.
to be found only in older homes, mold can be found wherever moisture accumulates, such as basements, bathrooms, windowsills, laundry rooms, or wherever leaks and flooding occur. Moist building materials, including new materials, can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria within a few days. Many of the materials used in standard construction of new homes are susceptible to water damage and fungal growth. A moldy home is frequently a sign of a home with deteriorating building materials. Even when molds are
