From the Guidelines
To test for a mold infection, consult a healthcare provider who can order appropriate diagnostic tests based on your symptoms and suspected infection site, with the most recent guidelines recommending the use of serum tests for fungal antigens or DNA and high-resolution chest CT for early detection 1.
Diagnostic Tests
Common tests include:
- Blood tests (like antibody tests or fungal antigen tests)
- Skin tests (similar to allergy tests)
- Cultures of affected tissue or bodily fluids
- Imaging studies such as X-rays or CT scans for respiratory mold infections For suspected skin or nail fungal infections, your doctor may take a scraping for microscopic examination or culture. For respiratory mold infections, sputum samples or bronchoscopy may be necessary.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Mold infections can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms often mimic other conditions, and some tests may produce false negatives, especially if you're taking antifungal medications. Early diagnosis is important because mold infections can become serious, particularly in people with weakened immune systems, so don't delay seeking medical attention if you suspect a mold infection.
Recent Guidelines
The most recent guidelines from 2019 recommend the use of microbiological laboratory testing, including antigen testing, serological testing, and PCR-based assays for the diagnosis of fungal infections 1. Additionally, the 2016 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends the use of galactomannan testing and 1,3-b-D-glucan testing for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis 1. However, the 2014 guidelines for the diagnosis and management of mucormycosis recommend against the use of 1,3-b-D-glucan testing due to its low sensitivity and specificity 1. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of testing and treatment for a suspected mold infection.
From the Research
Testing for Mold Infection
To test for mold infection, the following steps can be taken:
- Medical history: a thorough medical history is essential to identify potential exposure to mold and related health effects 2, 3
- Physical examination: a physical examination can help identify symptoms of mold infection, such as allergic reactions or respiratory problems 2, 3
- Conventional allergy diagnostics: tests such as skin prick tests or blood tests can be used to diagnose allergies to mold 2, 3
- Provocation tests: these tests can be used to assess the body's reaction to mold exposure 2, 3
Risk Groups
Certain groups of people are at higher risk of mold infection, including:
- Individuals with immunosuppression: people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to mold infections 2, 3
- People with cystic fibrosis: this condition can increase the risk of mold infection, particularly Aspergillus infections 2, 3
- People with asthma: asthma can increase the risk of mold-related health effects, such as allergic reactions and respiratory problems 2, 3
Treatment
Treatment for mold infections typically involves antifungal medications, such as:
- Voriconazole: this medication has been shown to be effective in treating invasive aspergillosis 4, 5, 6
- Posaconazole: this medication is recommended for prophylaxis against aspergillosis in certain patient groups 4, 5, 6
- Liposomal amphotericin B: this medication can be used in combination with other antifungals to treat invasive aspergillosis 4, 5, 6