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Welcome to the section on mycotoxicoses. Here we study diseases caused by the ingestion of microscopic fungal toxins. Unlike true mycoses, the causative agent does not multiply in tissues—the clinical presentation is due to the action of the poison. Pneumocystosis stands apart in our list as a severe opportunistic infection that is clinically and historically often examined within related fungal pathologies.
The section covers all classic poisonings of fungal origin. We will analyze alimentary toxic aleukia, ergotism, aflatoxicoses, and stachybotryotoxicosis. Special attention is paid to fusariotoxicoses (fusarium graminearum toxicosis and fusarium nivalenotoxicoses), as well as toxicosis caused by molds of the genera Penicillium and Aspergillus.
Practical classes and exams most often require an understanding of pathogenesis. Pay special attention to the carcinogenic effect of aflatoxins, the neurological and vascular clinical presentation of ergotism, and hematological abnormalities in aleukia. The topic concludes with a detailed block on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mycotoxicoses—this is the sanitary-epidemiological basis, without which you cannot pass the credit test.
Which markers in a serological assay indicate acute pneumocystosis?
An acute infection is indicated either by the initial detection of IgM antibodies or by a dynamic rise in IgG antibody titer in paired sera.
Can mycotoxins be eliminated by thoroughly boiling the product?
No. Mycotoxins are highly thermostable and retain their toxic properties even after prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
Why was the disease historically called "septic angina"?
This name was given due to the striking clinical similarity of poisoning symptoms to classic necrotic tonsillitis, although the nature of the disease is completely different.
Why did the disease get the name "drunken bread syndrome"?
The name is associated with a characteristic symptom—stiffness and an unsteady gait, as well as severe dizziness that occur after eating products made from contaminated grain. Outwardly, the patient's condition strongly resembles alcohol intoxication.
Which organ systems are affected in fusarium nivalenotoxicosis?
The disease runs an acute course and primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract and the nervous system.
Which toxin causes descending paralysis?
Descending paralysis is a characteristic clinical sign of citreoviridin toxicosis caused by the mycotoxin citreoviridin.
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