CIRS and mold: how to assess the "biological terrain" and what to expect in an integrative plan. Have you heard about mold illness? In consultation, we see people who come in with diffuse symptoms—fatigue, brain fog, migratory pains—and a history of exposure to damp or "earthy" smelling homes.
Have you heard about mold illness? In consultation, we see people who come in with diffuse symptoms—fatigue, brain fog, migratory pains—and a history of exposure to damp or "earthy" smelling homes. In this guide, I explain what CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) is, how the evaluation of the biological terrain fits in, what integrative support pathways we use, and what realistic expectations you can have if you are being treated at Mitogenesis. To achieve this, we integrate the best available evidence on mold and indoor humidity (WHO, CDC, IOM) and the current state—including controversies—surrounding CIRS.
CIRS is a proposed diagnosis that explains an inflammatory response in various body systems after certain exposures, such as damp buildings or neglected gardens. It has specific symptoms and biomarkers. In 2024, a study was published that supports the idea that CIRS is an inflammatory disease and details common treatments. It also highlights that clinical evidence continues to evolve and that there is no universal consensus on the diagnosis.
Although "CIRS" as a formal diagnosis is often debated, mainly because the criteria and laboratory panels vary among clinical groups and the quality of evidence is heterogeneous, there are recent reviews that point to consistent patterns and suggest specific protocols.
Even with diagnostic nuances, there are environmental signs that do not require controversy to act: smell of mold, stains or discoloration, history of leaks or condensation, and sustained humidity (≥50%). CDC/NIOSH and EPA guidelines are clear: repair moisture sources, dry within the first 24–48 hours and ventilate. In large buildings, there are structured assessment tools such as the NIOSH Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool (DMAT).
When we talk about "biological terrain" (inspired by Swiss biological medicine), we refer to your internal environment: mucosal barriers, microbiota, mitochondrial state, inflammatory load, and recovery capacity. It is not a denial of "external agents," but an invitation to look at the host + environment. At Mitogenesis, we integrate this vision to personalize each plan.
Historically, pleomorphism was used to explain how microorganisms can adopt different forms in different contexts. Today, we prefer to translate it into modern language: the host context changes microbial and immune behavior.
Everyday examples? Sleeping poorly, chronic stress, nutrient deficiencies, and a humid environment predispose dysbiosis and exaggerated inflammatory responses. Working on the milieu means improving sleep, nutrition, fluid movement, and environmental exposure (moisture remediation), in parallel with the indicated medical treatment. For the environmental component, technical references (WHO, CDC/EPA) serve as a practical guide.
Each case is unique, but there are families of tools that we usually consider within a personalized program—always with clinical assessment, clear objectives, and follow-up.
If there is one thing we keep repeating, it is this: the environment dictates. You can have the best clinical plan, but if the bathroom still has condensation and a musty smell, the progress will be fragile. That is why we coordinate with external professionals—from building inspectors and certified remediators to allergists, pulmonologists, sleep medicine specialists, or mental health professionals, as needed. CDC/NIOSH and EPA guidelines emphasize remediation as a foundation and maintaining humidity below 50%. In complex buildings, DMAT helps to objectify the problem and prioritize actions.
Not everything fits in with laboratory analysis. To see if your plan works, we propose a human and practical dashboard:
The WHO and the IOM emphasize that exposure to moisture/mold correlates with respiratory symptoms; if improving the environment and maintaining the clinical plan increases your quality of life, you are on the right track.
Frequently Asked Questions and Common Myths
At Mitogenesis (8698 E San Alberto Dr., Suite 110, Scottsdale, AZ 85258), we create clear plans and help you with recovery and healthy habits while also organizing helpful treatments when needed (like FLOWpresso, IVs, oxygen/h
CIRS and mold remain on the agenda in 2025 for a reason: indoor humidity is associated with respiratory symptoms and quality of life, and there are lines of research attempting to profile an inflammatory subgroup (CIRS), still with an open debate.
The biological terrain reminds you that the host and environment matter. Addressing the environment and maintaining habits and personalized therapies improves the chances of progress.
At Mitogenesis (Scottsdale, AZ), we work with clear objectives, understandable metrics, and coordination with other disciplines. This way, every adjustment makes sense, and every week becomes measurable.
Would you like an initial assessment to map your exposure, your "terrain," and design a realistic integrative plan? Write to us, and we will create a step-by-step roadmap with you.
National Integrated Healt Associates: The Importance of Detoxification in Chronic Illness (https://nihadc.com/the-importance-of-detoxification-in-chronic-illness/).
Kelly K. Mccann, MD: Complicating Factors in Lyme Disease: Multiple Chronic Infectious Disease Syndrome (MCIDS) and the Cell Danger Response (https://restorativemedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/McCann.lymetalk.final_.pdf).
National Library of Medicine (NIH): Chronic inflammatory response syndrome: a review of the evidence of clinical efficacy of treatment (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11623837/).
Dr. Mel Schottenstein
Naturopathic Doctor
NMD, MBE, MScN, FICT, FSCT
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of your physician or other health care professional. Do not use the information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem.
