Mycotoxin Sampling
What Are Mycotoxins
Mycotoxins are toxic chemical compounds produced by certain species of mold. They are not the mold itself. They are secondary metabolites that mold releases as part of its biological process, and they can be present in a space even when mold spore counts appear relatively normal.
This is why standard air sampling alone does not always explain the full extent of occupant health concerns. A spore count tells you how many mold particles are in the air. It does not tell you whether those particles, or the mold growth present in the structure, are producing mycotoxins.
Health Effects Associated with Mycotoxin Exposure
Mycotoxin exposure is associated with a range of symptoms that often go undiagnosed or are attributed to other causes: chronic fatigue, cognitive difficulty, respiratory issues, and immune system disruption. Individuals with underlying health conditions, young children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
Air and Surface Sampling
We offer both air and surface mycotoxin sampling to provide a complete picture of mycotoxin presence within the environment. Air sampling captures what is currently circulating in the indoor air. Surface sampling identifies mycotoxin accumulation on building materials, dust deposits, and HVAC components where mold may have colonized.
Using both methods together gives us a more accurate assessment than either alone.
Independent Lab Analysis
All mycotoxin samples are sent to an independent certified laboratory specializing in environmental mycotoxin analysis. Results identify specific mycotoxin compounds and concentrations. These findings are included in your report and can inform remediation scope and post-remediation verification sampling.
When Mycotoxin Sampling Is Recommended
- Occupants report persistent health symptoms that do not resolve after mold remediation
- Mold growth from known toxin-producing species such as Stachybotrys or Chaetomium has been identified
- Standard air sampling results do not fully explain reported symptoms
- Occupants with compromised immune systems or documented mold sensitivity are present
- The structure has a history of significant water damage
What You Receive
- Air and surface sample collection with documented locations and conditions
- Independent laboratory analysis identifying specific mycotoxin compounds
- A findings report with context and recommendations
- Guidance on next steps, including remediation and post-remediation verification sampling
Schedule Mycotoxin Sampling
If you or members of your household are experiencing health concerns that have not been fully explained by standard mold sampling, mycotoxin sampling may provide the missing information. Call (417) 323-6235 or contact us online.