Allergenic Reactions & Potential Toxicity
Associated with Type I allergies, including hay fever and asthma.
Type III hypersensitivity reactions, such as woodworker's lung and apple store hypersensitivity, may occur. Cross-reactivity with other fungi like Ulocladium, Stemphylium, and Phoma has been observed.
Toxin Production
A. alternata is known to produce alternariol, an antifungal compound.
Environmental Growth
Commonly found in soil, decaying organic material, on various food items, and textiles. It acts as a plant pathogen, particularly affecting weakened plants.
Grows on diverse substrates.
Physical Characteristics
Grows robustly on standard fungal media. Colonies appear dark olive green to brown, with a floccose to velvety texture due to heavy sporulation. Over time, colonies may become pleomorphic and lose their ability to sporulate after multiple transfers.
Potential as an Opportunistic Pathogen
Known to cause nasal and subcutaneous lesions, as well as nail infections, primarily in individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those on immunosuppressive medications.
Comentarios