Airborne Fungi in Indoor Hospital Environments

Abstract

The presence of microbial pollutants, in indoor environments, may elicit the deterioration of indoor air quality. Studies focusing on the exposure to fungal spores have permitted the elucidation of the biomedical consequences of their inhalation. Moulds produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases, potentially toxic substances such as mycotoxins. Consequently, an aeromycological study in different hospital environments located in Pavia (Italy) were carried out and the fungal concentration and species richness were determined. Results showed significant differences according to the carried on activity and to the number of patient/staff present. A total of 39 fungal species, some of them potentially pathogenic, was identified.