Neuropsychological exploration of alleged mold neurotoxicity.

Cognitive and emotional correlates of toxic mold exposure and potential dose-response effects for both outcomes were investigated. Self-reported length of exposure, time since last exposure, and serum immunoglobulin (IgG) levels were assessed. Despite CNS complaints often seen with mold exposed individuals, overall results did not uncover concomitant cognitive deficits suggested in previous studies or a significant reduction in intellectual functioning. Fewer subjects were excluded as result of failing effort/motivation assessment than expected. Correlations of IgG and cognitive function are discussed. A dose-effect for self-reported length of exposure and cognitive outcome was not seen. The sample's overall Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory II (MMPI-2) profile indicated elevations on scales 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8. MMPI-2 clinical scales 1 and 3 were significantly correlated with length of exposure. The MMPI-2 may be sensitive to increasing physical and emotional sequelae as length of exposure increases. A potential subgroup of cognitively impaired outliers within mold exposure litigants is explored. Limitations of self-reported and objective measurements for mold exposure and exploratory statistical methodology are discussed.

Southern Pacific Rattlesnake bite: a unique clinical challenge.

The Southern Pacific Coast Rattlesnake (Crotalus Helleri) is responsible for most of the snake bites in the coastal area of California from Los Angeles to San Diego. However, Crotalidae polyvalent immune ovine Fab fragments are not made from the venom of C. Helleri. This sheep-derived antivenom is indicated only in moderate snakebite envenomations. Very scant data are available regarding venom-induced thrombocytopenia treated with ovine Crotaline Fab fragments. This is the second reported case of venom-induced thrombocytopenia that followed a "biphasic" pattern with the inability of ovine Crotaline Fab fragments to prevent this toxic effect. This case shows that severe envenomation from Crotalus Helleri associated with a delayed presentation to the Emergency Department does not have a sustained response to the ovine antivenom, and suggests that the use of Wyeth (equine) antivenom may be of greater therapeutic benefit.