Mycotoxin Testing
VDI Lab’s Mycotoxin Panel detects 16 harmful mycotoxins, including 9 macrocyclic trichothecenes commonly produced by molds like Stachybotrys chartarum aka “black mold”.
Mycotoxin Testing – Overview
Canine, Feline, Equine – urine
Environment – swab
VDI offers mycotoxin testing for both patient and environmental samples – detecting a wide array of mycotoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by certain molds, known to adversely affect human and animal health. If there’s known mold contamination in the environment, it’s crucial to consider testing pets for potential mycotoxin exposure.
| Mycotoxin Panel: | 16 Mycotoxins from 5 groups. |
| Species: | Canine, Feline, Equine |
| Sample Type: | Urine |
| Volume Needed: | 3-5mL Urine |
| Fasting: | Not Required |
What’s Included:
Aflatoxin Group
- Toxins Tested: Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2
- Source: Produced by molds like Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, Aspergillus oryzae, and Aspergillus fumigatus. Commonly found on improperly stored grains and foods, or in damp, oxygen-rich environments.
- Health Impacts: Aflatoxins are potent carcinogens linked to liver cancer and acute liver toxicity. They can also cause immune suppression and growth retardation.
- Significance: Aflatoxin B1 is the most toxic and is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
| Mycotoxin | Cellular Activity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | Binds DNA and proteins | Primarily attacks the liver. Other organs include kidneys and lungs |
| B2 | Inhibits DNA, RNA, and protein metabolism | Affects the liver and kidneys. |
| G1 | Adversely affects immune system | Associated with cancer, chronic hepatitis, and jaundice. |
| G2 | Immunosuppressive | Associated with hepatitis, malnutrition, and cancer. |
Ochratoxin A
- Toxins Tested: Ochratoxin A
- Source: Produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium species, often contaminating cereals, coffee, dried fruits, and wine.
- Health Impacts: Associated with kidney toxicity, urinary tract cancers, and neurotoxicity. It may also impair immune function.
- Significance: A common contaminant in food and a focus of public health monitoring.
| Mycotoxin | Cellular Activity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Ochratoxin A | Interferes with cellular physiology and mitochondrial ATP production. Stimulates lipid degradation. | Associated with Kidney disease, cancer, bladder infection. |
Trichothecene Group (Macrocyclic)
- Toxins Tested: Satratoxin G, Satratoxin H, Isosatratoxin F, Roridin A, Roridin E, Roridin H, Roridin L-2, Verrucarin A, Verrucarin J
- Source: Produced by Stachybotrys and Fusarium species, often found in water-damaged buildings and grains.
- Health Impacts: Known for their immunosuppressive, neurotoxic, and cytotoxic effects. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, and hematological disorders.
- Significance: Macrocyclic trichothecenes, such as Satratoxin, are among the most toxic.
| Mycotoxin | Cellular Activity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Satratoxin G | Interferes with DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. | Associated with a wide range of GI issues, skin inflammation, vomiting, and damage to blood producing cells. |
| Satratoxin H | Inhibits protein synthesis. | Associated with vision problems, GI issues, and breathing impairment. |
| Isosatratoxin F | Immunosuppressive | Commonly referenced with “sick building syndrom” |
| Roridin A | Nasal inflammation, excess mucus, damage to the olfactory system | Acute and chronic lung and nasal problems. |
| Roridin E | Interferes with DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. | Immunosuppressive and neurotoxic |
| Roridin H | Inhibits protein synthesis. | Lymphoid necrosis and dysregulation of IgA production. |
| Roridin L-2 | Immunosuppressive | Easily airborne making it easily inhaled by animals in an infected building |
| Verrucarin A | Inhibits protein synthesis. | nausea, vomiting, weight loss. |
| Verrucarin J | Inhibits cellular proliferation. | Easily airborne making it easily inhaled by animals in an infected building |
Gliotoxin Derivative
- Toxins Tested: Gliotoxin Derivative
- Source: Produced by Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus, particularly in damp environments or immunocompromised hosts.
- Health Impacts: A potent immunosuppressant that disrupts cellular oxidative balance. Associated with invasive aspergillosis.
- Significance: Commonly found in environments with heavy mold growth.
| Mycotoxin | Cellular Activity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Gliotoxin | Attacks intracellular function in the immune system. | Associated with immune dysfunction disorders, lung disorders, and barrow marrow dysfunction. |
Zearalenone
- Toxins Tested: Zearalenone
- Source: Produced by Fusarium molds, frequently found in corn, wheat, and other cereals.
- Health Impacts: Mimics estrogen, leading to reproductive issues in animals and humans. May cause infertility, miscarriage, and developmental issues.
- Significance: A primary concern in livestock feed contamination but increasingly recognized in human/pet exposure.
| Mycotoxin | Cellular Activity | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Zearalenone | Mimics estrogen | Can lead to reproductive issues. |
Which pets should test?
- Known mold exposure in the home
- Known mold exposure in the food
- ADR pets with undiagnosed GI signs
- Chronic GI distress
- Chronic Cough / Sneezing
- Diarrhea or Vomiting with unknown source
- Change in behavior with unknown cause
Common Clinical Signs
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Jaundiced appearance
- Abdominal Pain
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Stiffness
- Weakness
About Mycotoxins
Mycotoxins are harmful substances produced by certain types of fungi and molds, posing significant risks to pets. While often associated with spoiled or decomposing food, mycotoxins can also originate from mold in the environment, including black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), which can be found in damp or poorly ventilated areas of homes. Animals exposed to these toxins, either through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, are at risk of developing serious health issues.
Environmental molds, such as black mold, release spores and toxins into the air that can cause respiratory distress in animals. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or labored breathing. Prolonged exposure to moldy environments may also lead to lethargy, loss of appetite, and skin irritation. In severe cases, exposure to black mold can weaken an animal’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections and chronic health issues.
In addition to environmental molds, some toxins, such as aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus fungi, may be present in spoiled food. These mycotoxins are processed in the liver and can cause liver cell death (hepatocellular necrosis), leading to jaundice and impaired liver function. Fusarium molds, which produce trichothecene mycotoxins, are another source of contamination, often found on old or spoiled pet food, causing gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Mycotoxin exposure, whether from moldy food or environmental molds, can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Animals may experience symptoms such as vomiting, respiratory distress, skin irritation, or lethargy. Severe cases can result in long-term organ damage or death. Immediate veterinary care is essential to reduce symptoms and enhance the chances of recovery.
Mold vs Mycotoxins
Just because there is mold, doesn’t mean there are mycotoxins. Not all molds produce mycotoxins, so what is the difference?
Mold, or rather mold spores, are microscopic particles released by molds to reproduce and spread. These spores are ubiquitous in the environment and can enter homes through open windows, doors, or by attaching to clothing and pets. When mold spores land on damp, warm surfaces, they can grow into new mold colonies.
Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by certain molds. Unlike mold spores, mycotoxins are not living organisms but are harmful compounds that can contaminate food, water, and air. Animals can be exposed to mycotoxins through ingestion of moldy food, inhalation of contaminated air, or skin contact.
It’s crucial for pet owners to prevent exposure by keeping environments dry and clean, storing food properly, and disposing of moldy items safely.