ABSTRACT
I. INTRODUCTION Fungi are eukaryotic, non-chlorophyllus, mostly spore-bearing organisms, that exist as saprophytes or as parasites of animals and plants (1). Fungi constitute unicellular to multicellular organisms, and their presence in the environment is dependent on the climate, vegetation, and other ecological factors. The presence and prevalence of fungi indoors depends on the moisture content, ventilation, and the presence or absence of carpets, pets, and houseplants (2). Fungi grow in most substrates, including glass and plastic surfaces, and at low temperatures, such as in refrigerators and cold rooms. Colonies of Aspergillus jumigatus, Alternaria alternata. Cladosporium herbarum. Penicillium, and Fusarium are the universally present molds in our environment (Fig. 1). The development of allergies to fungi follows the same biological principles as allergies to other environmental agents.
