Mycotoxins and Your Health

    CARROLLTON, TX, June 08, 2017 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Mold growth is a perfectly natural occurrence in the environment. When growth is evident indoors, however, certain types of mold and fungi may release poisons known as mycotoxins. These, in turn, may sometimes pose risks to human health and may create what is commonly known as "sick building syndrome".

"It is important to understand that not all molds and mycotoxins are inherently bad, but they do not belong in environments where people can easily come into contact with the contaminants they may produce," says Dr. Dennis Hooper, laboratory director at RealTime Laboratories. "Some molds, such as Aspergillus flavus, can create carcinogenic compounds while others like Stachybotrychartarum are connected with 'black mold'. On the other hand, penicillin can create mycotoxins that are harmful to bacteria and potentially helpful in humans."

If indoor mold or fungal contamination is suspected, it is strongly recommended that people seek out mitigation services to safely and properly decontaminate homes, office buildings or other structures. Mycotoxin testing can help people who have been exposed to such environments determine if they, too, have been contaminated. A simple urine test can help clinicians determine what, if any, fungal spores and/or mycotoxins are present in a person's system.

"Mycotoxin exposure may occur through ingestion, inhalation and skin contact," says Dr. Hooper. "Depending on the type of mold or fungi present, mycotoxins may promote the development of both acute and chronic health conditions. Testing for their presence may help doctors better diagnosis and treat linked health problems. For those who fear exposure and find out none was experienced, testing delivers peace of mind."

Mycotoxin testing is a simple process that requires only a urine sample. People concerned about exposure can have their doctors order a test. In some states, it may be feasible for patients to order screening kits directly.

To find out more about mycotoxins, their potential impact on health and screening, visit RealTimeLab.com online.

RealTime Labs (RTL) is the only clinical laboratory certified by CAP and CLIA to perform mycotoxin testing on humans. The test uses human urine and we perform an ELISA test to determine the presence or absence of 15 of the most toxic mycotoxins. The tests are generally ordered and given to the patient during an office visit. To date, more than 100,000 tests have been performed and our provider base is over 2000 physicians.

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