PCR Testing Identifies Stachybotrys & Other Types of Fungi

Cinnaminson, NJ, April 24, 2013
 
Over the past decade there have been numerous media reports about a specific type of mold known as Stachybotrys chartarum. Many in the media have referred to it as “toxic mold” although the term is not accurate, unless the fungi are actually tested to see if they are producing toxins.   
 
Having any type of mold in high concentrations, whether it be Stachybotrys chartarum or other common indoor molds such as Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, or Alternaria, likely means there is a water or moisture problem in the building.  Elevated levels of these and other molds can all potentially lead to health concerns for building occupants. These concerns can range from allergies and asthma triggers to fungal infections in people with weakened immune systems.
 
One company that has been helping to identify mold problems in buildings is EMSL Analytical, Inc.  The company has a network of laboratories across the United States and Canada. EMSL offers testing equipment, supplies and laboratory services from some of the most renowned scientists in the industry. 
 
“At EMSL, we offer a variety of analytical methods for identifying fungal contaminants,” reported Charles Li, Ph.D., Director of PCR and DNA Analysis at EMSL Analytical. “In addition to traditional culturing and microscopy methods, EMSL can identify a wide variety of molds, including Stachybotrys chartarum, utilizing PCR testing methods. This method provides for exceptional accuracy and can provide results in hours versus days as is required by some other analytical methods.”  
 
EMSL has sponsored an educational video about Stachybotrys chartarum that can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/BGk2_jj6VH8
 
To learn more about testing for Stachybotrys chartarum, other fungal contaminants, microbial pathogens, or other indoor air quality (IAQ) and environmental concerns, please contact EMSL Analytical at www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com