Characteristics

Distribution
Ubiquitous;
cosmopolitan.
More commonly found in tropical, subtropical regions.
Approx. 30 species.

Where Found
Plant debris, soil, facultative plant pathogens of tropical or subtropical plants.

Mode of Dissemination
Dry spore.
Wind.

Growth Indoors
Yes, on a variety of substrates.

Industrial Uses
Not known.

Other Comments
None.

Potential Health Effects

Allergens
Common.
Type I allergies (hay fever, asthma).
Other: A relatively common cause of allergic fungal sinusitis.

Potential Opportunist or Pathogen
Occasionally a cause of onychomycosis, ocular keratitis, sinusitis, mycetoma, pneumonia, endocarditis, cerebral abscess, and disseminated infection. Most cases are from immunocompromised patients.

Potential Toxin Production
Not known.

Laboratory Notes

Growth/Culture Characterisics
Grows well on general fungal media; most isolates need "light/dark cycling" for sporulation. Colonies are shades of gray to brown.

Spore Trap Recognition
Distinctive; large second or center cell gives conidia pronounced curved shape. Conidia from species with less pronounced curve may be misidentified. Some Drechslera spores are similar.

Tape Lift Recognition
Distinctive, readily identifiable on tape lifts.