Mold, Mycotoxins, and Autism: What Every Parent Should Know

Mold exposure can be a contributing factor to autism symptoms in some children. From allergy-like symptoms and brain fog to more serious immune dysfunction, the health implications of mold exposure are broad and often underestimated.

Children with autism often have impaired detoxification systems, making them particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of mycotoxins—toxic byproducts released by mold. Identifying and addressing environmental mold is a critical step toward improving your child’s health and behavior.

Need help figuring out if mold is a problem in your home?Quality Environmental Testing Inc. specializes in accurate, science-backed mold testing and consultations tailored for sensitive populations—including children with autism.

What This Article Covers

• Symptoms of mycotoxin toxicity

• Difference between mold and mycotoxins

• Mold colonization in the body

• Home mold testing options

• Dangers of mycotoxins

• Safe mold testing and remediation strategies

Recognizing Mycotoxin Toxicity Symptoms

Mold can be stealthy, and its effects may look different from person to person. Mycotoxins suppress the immune system, allowing other issues—like Lyme, chronic strep, or gut imbalances—to take hold.

Look for symptom clusters, especially if your child’s autism symptoms fluctuate in severity.

Common signs to watch for include:

• Fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome

• Brain fog, memory loss, or cognitive delays

• Skin rashes like eczema or psoriasis

• Mood issues like anxiety or depression

• Headaches, frequent urination, or sinus infections

• Food sensitivities and gut issues

• Worsening symptoms indoors, with improvement outdoors

If you notice a combination of these, it may be time to test your home environment. Quality Environmental Testing Inc. can guide you through this process.

Mold vs. Mycotoxins

Understanding the difference is key:

• Mold is a living organism (a type of fungus) that grows in damp environments.

• Mycotoxins are the dangerous, invisible toxins mold produces when under stress.

Mycotoxins are what do most of the long-term damage—and they can linger in your home and body even after the mold dies.

Mold Colonization in the Body

Mold can colonize in the gut, sinuses, and lungs, triggering immune dysfunction, mast cell activation, and symptoms similar to PANS.

Detection:

• Great Plains OAT Test (look at markers 2, 4, and 5)

• Urine mycotoxin testing (MycoTox Profile, RealTime Labs)

• Blood antibody tests (Alletess Panel, C4A, MSH)

Treatment:

• Herbal or prescription antifungals

• Binders to ease detox symptoms

• Support for liver and digestive health (regular bowel movements are essential)

Colonization may require medical guidance—but removal from a moldy environment is always the first step.

How to Test Your Home for Mold

To address mold-related health issues, you must first identify its presence in the environment.

Quality Environmental Testing Inc. offers professional, non-invasive mold testing that combines several methods for the most accurate results:

Testing Options:

• Air (Spore Trap) Testing – Captures spores in the air, especially behind walls or in cabinets.

• Tape Testing – Identifies specific mold species when visible mold is present.

• Combination Testing – Offers the most complete picture of your home’s mold status.

Their experienced inspectors will guide you through which type of test is best for your home’s structure and suspected issues.

The Danger of Black Mold (Stachybotrys)

This highly toxic mold species is also known as “black mold.” If it shows up in results, immediate action is necessary—no amount is considered safe.

What Are Mycotoxins?

These invisible toxins can damage:

• Neurological function

• Mitochondrial energy production

• Liver and kidney function

• Immune system regulation

For children with autism, impaired detox pathways mean that even small exposures to mycotoxins can cause significant symptoms.

Testing Your Child for Mycotoxins

Available Testing:

• Urine Testing – Measures excreted mycotoxins (not always reliable in low-detox individuals)

• Blood Antibody Testing – Tests immune response (Alletess panel recommended)

• C4A & MSH Levels – Indicate possible water damage exposure

But the most accurate assessment starts with testing your home. If mold is found, assume exposure and act accordingly.

Safe Mold Remediation

Never open walls or treat visible mold on your own. This can release dangerous mycotoxins into your living space.

Quality Environmental Testing Inc. works closely with certified mold remediators and can refer you to trusted professionals who use proper containment and removal methods.

Do NOT:

• Use bleach or mold sprays

• Attempt DIY demolition

• Ignore visible water damage

Instead:

• Hire certified professionals

• Use HEPA air purifiers (Austin Air, Air Doctor, Blueair)

• Keep indoor humidity below 50%

• Use a dehumidifier, especially in laundry or basement areas

• Wash bedding often and ventilate your home

What If You Can’t Afford to Leave or Remediate?

If full remediation isn't immediately possible, take steps to minimize exposure:

• Use box fan filters with MERV 13 filters (DIY air cleaner)

• Increase ventilation and airflow

• Vacuum and dust frequently with HEPA filtration

• Spend time outdoors whenever possible

Final Thoughts

If there is mold in your home, there’s a real possibility that mycotoxins are contributing to your child’s health challenges.

Partnering with Quality Environmental Testing Inc. gives you access to:

• Certified, science-based home mold inspections

• Comprehensive testing options tailored to your home

• Referrals to trusted remediation professionals

• Compassionate guidance for families navigating health and environmental stressors

Ready to Take the First Step?

👉 Contact Quality Environmental Testing Inc. today for a consultation or to schedule an in-home assessment. Your child’s healing journey starts with a healthier environment