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Food Additive Results in False Positives for Human Fungal Infection

EMSL Analytical offers environmental testing services to identify fungal pathogens in people’s homes, schools and work environments.


WEBWIRE

Cinnaminson, NJ, July 25, 2013
 
Earlier this month, Fox News published an article about a woman who repeatedly tested positive for aspergillosis following a bone marrow transplant.  The woman was given antifungal drugs, but a CT scan reportedly failed to show any signs of the fungal infection.
 
It was later realized that the woman had been consuming three to four popsicles each day which was resulting in the false positive tests of the infection.  Doctors realized that a fiber known as galactomannan, which is used in some frozen treats as a stabilizer and thickening agent, was to blame.  Galactomannan can also be naturally found in Aspergillus, the type of fungi that causes the infection, and is looked for in the test for aspergillosis.
 
Aspergillus is a common fungus that can be found in the environment in soils, on plants and in decaying plant matter. It is also commonly found in water damaged indoor environments. Some species of Aspergillus are known pathogens and people with weakened immune systems can be susceptible to infections caused by the fungi.
 
One of the leading laboratories in North America that provides testing solutions for Aspergillus in indoor environments is EMSL Analytical, Inc. “There are several different kinds of aspergillosis,” reported Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “For people with compromised immune systems, breathing in high levels of Aspergillus spores that may be present in a building that has suffered water damage can lead to infections and even death in extreme cases.  EMSL provides testing services to identify Aspergillus and other types of molds that can cause health concerns for building occupants,” he continued.
 
EMSL has sponsored an online educational video about Aspergillus and aspergillosis that can be seen at: http://youtu.be/_de4qZpwP8Q
 
To learn more about testing for microbial pathogens, mold or other indoor air quality concerns, please visit 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, indoor air quality 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.



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