Detection of Potentially Pathogenic Airborne Molds in Selected Intensive Care Units (ICUs) of the Philippine General Hospital

Abstract

Four Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at the Philippine General Hospital were air sampled using open Petri plates containing Malt Extract Agar on October 5, November 10 and December 10, 2007. A total of 60 fungal colonies were recovered inside and outside of the ICUs. Among these colonies, Aspergillus spp., Cladosporum spp., Curvularia spp. and Penicillium spp. were identified, which are known to cause allergies, infections and diseases in people, especially for immunocompromised ICU patients. Fungal levels inside and outside ICUs were compared to determine a possible interior amplification site. Based on /-test results, there is no sufficient evidence to conclude that there is fungal amplification inside all the ICUs sampled. Relative humidity and temperature were measured to determine their effects on fungal concentration in air. Relative humidity ranging from 59%-92% was found to affect inside fungal levels. Temperature values of 25.5°C-30.5°C, on the other hand, showed no influence on fungal concentration inside and outside ICUs.