From the Research
Testing for black mold exposure in people is not recommended as there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of "toxic mold syndrome" or "toxic black mold" as a cause of disease. The concept of "toxic mold syndrome" has been shown to be media hype and mass hysteria, partly stemming from the misinterpreted concept of the "sick building syndrome" 1. If you suspect black mold exposure, consult a healthcare provider who specializes in environmental medicine or toxicology, and they will likely perform a clinical evaluation to determine if your symptoms are related to a known medical condition. Blood testing to detect antibodies specific to Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) may be considered, but it is essential to note that these tests should be interpreted alongside your clinical symptoms and exposure history, as no single test definitively proves black mold illness. Some possible tests that may be ordered include:
- Blood tests to detect IgE and IgG antibodies specific to Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold)
- Urine mycotoxin testing to detect the presence of toxins produced by molds
- Pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity if respiratory symptoms are present
- Skin prick tests to identify general mold allergies It's crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you're experiencing symptoms like persistent coughing, respiratory issues, headaches, or fatigue after potential mold exposure, rather than attempting self-diagnosis. The study by 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence on this topic, and it emphasizes that there is no scientific evidence to support the link between black mold exposure and disease.