Mold Allergy Panel
Performed by: Quest Diagnostics
The Mold Allergy Panel detects immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood, which are produced in response to specific mold allergens. This test evaluates immune responses to five common molds associated with allergies: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, and Mucor racemosus.
An allergic reaction to mold allergens can range from uncomfortable to severe. Mold exposure symptoms usually develop within a few minutes to a few hours. It is important to identify which allergens may trigger an allergic response. This panel can help determine whether you have had or currently have an allergic reaction to mold allergens. If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms listed in the "Signs & Symptoms" section below, this test may be for you.
The test requires a blood sample to measure IgE antibody levels made by your immune system in response to common indoor and outdoor mold allergens, offering a quick and convenient way to test for multiple allergens simultaneously. There is no need to discontinue any allergy medications you're currently taking, and because it’s a blood test, there’s no exposure to allergens, thus eliminating the risk of severe allergic reactions—unlike with skin testing.
The following molds are measured by this panel:
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Alternaria alternata: The most prevalent mold in dry, warm climates, Alternaria alternata has air spores that peak in the afternoon and typically disseminate in warm, dry air. It is often found in soil and on plants, cereal grains, grass, corn silage, rotten wood, bricks, canvas, iron, compost, and bird nests.
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Aspergillus fumigatus: This mold can grow both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, it thrives in soil, decomposing leaves, bird droppings, compost, wood chips, hay, stored grains, and sweet potatoes. Indoors, it can be found on surfaces such as ventilation ducts, floors, walls, potted plants, household dust, and starchy foods like rice, cereal, and bread.
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Candida albicans: Known for causing fungal infections, Candida is often referred to as a yeast but is actually a type of fungus (mold). It can live in soil and organic debris but commonly resides on the skin, in the mouth, intestinal tract, and other moist areas of the body. Yeast can also be found in many foods.
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Cladosporium herbarum: Predominant in temperate climates, Cladosporium herbarum can grow both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, it is found on plants, in soil, and on food. Indoors, it can be found in bathrooms, basements, and on surfaces such as window panes, insulation, fabrics, wood, wallpaper, carpets, upholstered furniture, faucets, and curtains.
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Mucor racemosus: Found in soil, plant debris, and dung, Mucor racemosus also grows indoors in house dust, mattresses, carpets, and ventilation ducts.
IgE antibodies are normally present in small amounts in the blood, but larger quantities can indicate that the body is overreacting to allergens, causing it to produce histamine and trigger allergic reactions. Allergies may cause the following signs and symptoms:
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Sneezing
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Irritated eyes (swelling, redness, watering, scratchiness, itching, puffiness)
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Congestion
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Runny nose
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Itchy nose, ears, or mouth
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Headache
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Fatigue
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Increased asthma symptoms (coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing)
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Rash, welts, hives, or eczema
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Nasal congestion, wheezing, shortness of breath, or slight trouble breathing
This test may not be right for you if you experience more severe symptoms. SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION during your reaction. See a specialist for further evaluation if you experience:
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Chest tightness
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Shortness of breath or constriction and tightening of the airways
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A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe
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A severe drop in blood pressure
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Rapid pulse
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Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded
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Loss of consciousness
Please Note:
While this test identifies IgE antibodies to mold allergens, the results alone do not confirm an allergy diagnosis. It’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider, who will assess your results in the context of your medical history, symptoms, medications, and any other tests. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose an allergy and prescribe the necessary treatment.
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