Start With MoldCo
Free Mold Illness Guide
Get started with an introduction to mold-related illness and what to look for.
Read the Free GuideMold Risk Test
A free questionnaire to understand your exposure and health risk factors.
Take the Free TestEssential Reading
Foundational research papers and books that define our understanding of mold-related illness.
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Shoemaker RC et al. (2006)"Diagnosis of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) in Patients Exposed to Water-Damaged Buildings"
The foundational paper establishing CIRS diagnostic criteria in water-damaged building exposure.
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Shoemaker, R. C., & ad hoc Committee. (2010)Policy Holders of America position statement on CIRS diagnosis and treatment
Clinical consensus on the diagnostic approach and evidence-based treatment framework for CIRS.
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Dooley M, McMahon SW. (2020)"A comprehensive review of mold research literature from 2011-2018" — Internal Medicine Review
The most thorough review of a decade of mold illness research, synthesizing peer-reviewed evidence.
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Shoemaker, R. C.Surviving Mold: Life in the Era of Dangerous Buildings. Otter Bay Books; 2010.
The book that started the modern understanding of mold-related illness and practical recovery strategies.
Key Resources
Trusted external references for further learning and clinical guidance.
SurvivingMold.com
Dr. Shoemaker's official resource site with research, tools, and clinical information.
CDC Mold FAQ
Official U.S. government guidance on mold exposure and health effects.
CIRSx
Clinical resources and information for practitioners treating mold-related illness.
Understanding the Science
Brief explanations of key concepts in mold-related illness.
What is CIRS?
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is an acute and chronic inflammatory response to the presence of toxigenic organisms and their metabolites inside buildings. It may develop in susceptible individuals after repeated water-damaged building exposures, particularly in genetically susceptible individuals. Research suggests approximately 24% of the population may have genetic susceptibility to developing CIRS.
What are biomarkers?
Biomarkers are measurable indicators in your blood or body that reflect disease processes. Key mold-related biomarkers include TGF-β1 (a marker of immune dysregulation), MMP-9 (an indicator of vascular inflammation), and MSH (melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which plays a role in immune function). These markers help clinicians understand inflammatory patterns and track changes over time.
What is the Shoemaker Protocol?
The Shoemaker Protocol is a step-by-step, evidence-based approach to treating mold-related illness. It begins with exposure avoidance and assessment, continues with specific biomarker testing, and includes targeted care protocols guided by test results. The approach is designed to reduce inflammatory markers and support recovery.
Is mold illness real?
Yes. Mold-related illness is recognized by peer-reviewed medical literature and clinicians who specialize in environmental medicine. Research has established clear connections between water-damaged building exposure and specific health symptoms and biomarker changes. While diagnosis and treatment approaches continue to evolve, the underlying science is robust and supported by multiple clinical studies.