MYCOLOGY
pathogenic and are classed as a category 3 organism, while other Cladosporium spp are considered rarely pathogenic. While not all fungi are pathogenic to man, we all know the antibiotic benefits of penicillium species, and many of us also benefit from the use of Saccharomyces carlsbergensis within the brewing industry. Human fungal pathogens are
considered ‘hidden’ killers and cause a significant burden on human health. Fungi are responsible for 1.5 million global annual fatalities, and infect around one third of the human population.9 Fungal diseases are varied, and infections range from common superficial skin and nail infections, through subcutaneous infection, to potentially life-threatening systemic disease. The impact of infection varies widely and is dependent on the health of the individual. Subjects with a weakened immune system, who have immunosuppression or who are susceptible to allergies have a greater infection risk. We know that Christmas trees can introduce fungal mycotoxins and allergens, and in particular those which are airborne, but how significant are they as a fomite? Epidemiological analysis indicates that 13% of the US population are affected by mould allergies.10
Which suggests that 87% of
the US population are not. As always, the host, parasite and environmental factors need to be considered in our risk analysis. Unfortunately, mycology – the study of fungi and moulds – is often the poor relation within our microbiology laboratories. The mycology bench is often the one that is forgotten or disregarded as our laboratories and staff are stretched
Christmas trees are usually harvested a few weeks before the festive season and stored in moist environments with many other trees. Moulds can proliferate in these environments, and when moved into the home or office can shed spores and allergens into the immediate atmosphere
to deliver diagnostic services. The infected toenails, hair and skin samples often mount up, and undoubtably the fungal organisms within them freely multiply to envelop the specimens before analysis. Any microbiologist knows the issues associated with fungal contamination within the microbiology laboratory. The study of mycology and the impact of mycotoxins and allergens needs better understanding. As does the modernisation of diagnostic practice, with routine molecular analysis outside of the reference laboratory, to support local culture and microscopy.
Christmas tree syndrome symptoms
As specified, Christmas tree syndrome will not be apparent in the majority. In those susceptible the severity of the symptoms will vary in relation to their immune and allergic status. Common symptoms include nasal, eye and throat irritation, cold and influenza-like illness, headaches, rashes, fatigue, wheezing and the potential for nose bleeds. More serious symptoms may be seen in the more
susceptible and include asthma attacks, superficial, subcutaneous and systemic fungal infection that can potentially lead to invasive fungal disease.
Should we be concerned? The impact of setting a live Christmas tree within a centrally heated house or office will vary considerably, dependent on the health and susceptibility to effects of the host(s). In most cases the impact will be beneficial by enhancing the wellbeing that surrounds us during the festive season. In some the impact will result in allergic and mild respiratory symptoms, and in a few, the impact may be considerable. As Sir Isaac Newton advised, ‘to every action there is always opposed an equal reaction,’ similarly it’s often true if not universally equal in our world of biology; for most benefits there are usually potential undesirable disbenefits.
While as scientists we should not mix
up the precise laws of physics with the inevitably variable ones in biology, it is safe to say that for the majority of our actions, there are usually both desirable
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