From the Guidelines
Mold allergy exposure testing is typically performed by professionals such as allergists, immunologists, or industrial hygienists who have expertise in evaluating indoor mold/dampness problems. The primary methods used for testing include skin prick tests and blood tests (specifically IgE antibody tests) [ 1 ]. During a skin prick test, small amounts of mold allergens are placed on the skin, which is then lightly pricked to allow the substance to enter the skin; if a person is allergic, a small raised bump (wheal) will appear within 15-20 minutes. Blood tests measure the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood that the immune system produces in response to mold allergens. Sometimes, allergists may also use intradermal skin tests, where a small amount of allergen is injected just under the skin, or patch tests for delayed reactions.
Methods of Testing
- Skin prick tests: to identify specific mold sensitivities
- Blood tests: to measure the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood
- Intradermal skin tests: for more detailed analysis of mold allergy
- Patch tests: for identifying delayed reactions to mold allergens
These tests help identify specific mold sensitivities, allowing for targeted treatment approaches including avoidance strategies, medications like antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids, and potentially immunotherapy for severe cases [ 1 ]. Testing should be conducted in a controlled clinical environment as allergic reactions can occasionally be severe, and results should always be interpreted in the context of the patient's symptoms and medical history. It is essential to consult with pediatric experts in pulmonary medicine, allergy/immunology, environmental health, or physicians with expertise in occupational environmental health for the interpretation of environmental data and diagnosis of mold-related illnesses [ 1 ].
From the Research
Methods of Mold Allergy Exposure Testing
- Skin prick test (SPT) is a widely used method for evaluating mold allergy, as seen in studies 2, 3
- Serum-specific IgE antibodies can be quantified using the radioimmunoassay version of ImmunoCAP, as mentioned in 2
- Intradermal skin test is another method used to evaluate mold allergy, as noted in 2
- Patch test is used to determine type IV (delayed) hypersensitivity reactions, as discussed in 4
Healthcare Professionals Performing Mold Allergy Exposure Testing
- Clinicians, such as allergists and immunologists, perform mold allergy exposure testing, as implied in 2, 3, 4, 5
- Physicians, including family physicians, may also be involved in allergy testing, as mentioned in 4
Diagnostic Procedures for Mold Sensitization
- Testing for specific IgE antibodies to mold species, such as Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Penicillium, can help diagnose mold sensitization, as seen in 3, 5
- Using a combination of SPT and serum-specific IgE tests can provide a more accurate diagnosis, as recommended in 3
- Evaluating exposure and clinical symptoms through questionnaires can also be useful in diagnosing mold-associated respiratory symptoms, as noted in 5