What is Stachybotrys chartarum (SC)?
Stachybotrys chartarum (SC) is an uncommon, greenish-black mold that can grow on materials, such as drywall, wood paneling, and ceiling tiles, which become moist due to humidity, leaks or condensation. You may have heard about SC on a “60 Minutes” special that investigated the health effects associated with this mold. How can SC affect you? It is difficult for SC spores to become airborne; thus, it is very rare to find indoor air contaminated by SC. Nonetheless, if indoor air is contaminated with SC, it is only harmful to your health if it is present at high levels. In these instances, sensitive people can experience cold-like symptoms (runny nose, irritated eyes, coughing, sneezing), as well as asthma-like symptoms (wheezing, labored breathing) and skin rashes. These symptoms generally are not chronic, disappearing when the mold is removed from the environment. Some studies have also indicated that the presence of SC may be associated with hemosiderosis in young infants. Hemosiderosis
