There are over 100,000 species of fungi. Many fungi are good and useful (edible mushrooms would be an example of these) while some cause problems (some fungi can injure plants and humans). Every week the IEQ Review will describe a specific microorganism, its morphological origin and potential health effects.  If you would like to know about a specific organism and/or would like it published in The IEQ Review please email Dr. Rajiv Sahay with the Environmental Diagnostics Laboratory (EDL) at Pure Air Control Services laboratory@pureaircontrols.com

This week we will cover ... 

Conidiobolus



Conidiobolus is a mold found in soil and decaying plant debris. It is also isolated from insects and amphibians. The fungus is mostly distributed in tropical areas and particularly at Central America, equatorial Africa, and India. Conidiobolus spp. are the causative agents of infections in humans, sheep, dogs, deer, and horses. The most common clinical picture caused by Conidiobolus spp. is a subcutaneous infection involving nasal mucosa and maxillofacial tissues. This chronic inflammatory granulomatous disease is also referred to as entomophthoromycosis conidiobolae. It involves facial subcutaneous tissues and paranasal sinuses, leading to formation of firm, subcutaneous nodules or polyps. The infection may be acquired via inhalation of spores or a minor trauma such as an insect bite. The infected host is frequently an otherwise healthy individual working outdoors in tropical areas.