Name:Alternaria alternata

 

Latin name:Alternaria alternata

Description:

Alternaria is a fungus measuring a few micrometers in diameter. To survive in adverse conditions, Alternaria produces spores in the form of tiny, highly resistant vesicles.

 

Where they are found:

One of the most common moulds inside houses, and also carried in the atmosphere. It multiplies rapidly in warm, damp conditions, and the proximity of plants may promote its growth.

 

Period of exposure:

from august to september

Major allergens:

The main Alternaria allergen is called Alt a 1.

Allergy:

Alternaria spores are released in massive numbers in August and September, at which time of year they are a common cause of combined seasonal rhinitis and conjunctivitis. Symptoms affect the airways (rhinitis and asthma), and Alternaria appears to be involved in some cases of recrudescent, severe asthma.