Toxic Mold and Mycotoxins in Neurotoxicity Cases: Stachybotrys, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Cladosporium, Alternaria, Trichothecenes

Abstract

Presented is the argument that psychologists and neuropsychologists have no scientific basis for rendering opinions about causation given the current state of the literature. The critical question is whether in a residence or office inhalation of mold spores or mold metabolites, including mycotoxins, causes neuropsychological impairment or mental and emotional disorders. There has not been sufficient research to support such conclusions. Nonetheless, in the context of litigation, speculative opinions are rendered in lieu of scientifically well-founded conclusions. Resources for recognizing and coping with pseudoscientific arguments are suggested.