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Ruth A. Etzel, MD, PhD

JAMA. 2002;287:425-427.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

INTRODUCTION

Mycotoxins, chemicals produced by fungi, may have developed to serve as a chemical defense system against insects, microorganisms, nematodes, grazing animals, and humans. Approximately 400 known mycotoxins exist. This article describes the major mycotoxins that affect human health and highlights the mycotoxins with potential bioterrorist use.

Mycotoxins can benefit humans by their use as antibiotics (penicillins), immunosuppressants (cyclosporine), and in control of postpartum hemorrhage and migraine headaches (ergot alkaloids). Mycotoxins are also capable of producing illness and death in humans and animals. Table 1 lists 4 major classes of mycotoxins and their health effects.

Table appears in full text version. Table. Selected Mycotoxins and Their Effects

Exposure to mycotoxins may occur through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal exposure.^1-2 The mycotoxins were discovered when epidemics of illness were traced to ingestion of moldy food. Massive mycotoxin contamination of food resulting in outbreaks of illness occurs only rarely today in developing countries. The primary . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Aflatoxins

Ergot Alkaloids

Fumonisins

Trichothecenes

Vomitoxin

Satratoxin

Prevention

Mycotoxins and Biological Warfare

Author Affiliation: Division of Environmental and Occupational Health, George Washington University, School of Public Health and Health Services, Washington, DC.

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