Schmitzer, Danae

Danae Schmitzer, an Account Executive for The Fresno Bee, was exposed to mold from a roof leak during the winter of 2012-2013, with the parties disputing only the nature and extent of her injury. Applicant, relying on treating physician Dr. Lysander Jim, claimed she developed Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) causing permanent total disability across virtually all body systems. The WCJ instead relied on court-appointed IME Dr. Nachman Brautbar (toxicology/forensic/internal medicine) and Psychiatric IME Dr. Myron Nathan, finding industrial injury limited to the respiratory system (cough, airway/mucosal irritation) and psyche, resulting in 42% permanent disability. The WCJ found Dr. Jim's reports overstated and misrepresented lab results and that CIRS diagnostic criteria were not met. The WCAB adopted and incorporated the WCJ's report and denied reconsideration.