Cause and Transmission (Epidemiology):

Aflatoxin Mycotoxicosis is caused by the fungus Aspergillus flavus, which releases aflatoxin. This fungus grows on peanuts and corn that are stored in moist places, and it produces aflatoxin on the outsides of the peanuts and corn. It is ingested from eating shelled peanuts, contaminated corn, and corn and peanut products; low levels of it have even been detected in peanut butter (but levels are typically so low that they have little or no effect on people).

How It Affects the Body (Pathogenesis):

Aflatoxin damages the intestines and liver, and may lead to liver cancer in chronic cases. Because it is somewhat rare, information on effects on the body is somewhat limited. Acute aflatoxicosis is produced when moderate to high levels of aflatoxins are consumed. Specific episodes of disease may include hemorrhage, acute liver damage, edema, alteration in digestion, absorption and/or metabolism of nutrients, and possibly death. Chronic aflatoxicosis results from ingestion of low to moderate levels of aflatoxins. The effects are usually difficult to recognize, so they generally go unreported. Some of the common symptoms are alterations in metabolism and slower rates of growth.