Description

The 15 Mold Panel: IgE Blood Test is designed to detect IgE antibodies, a type of immune system biomarker produced in response to allergen exposure—specifically to mold spores. This panel identifies immune sensitivity or allergic reactions to 15 common environmental mold species. Elevated IgE levels to specific molds may indicate that these fungi are contributing to symptoms such as respiratory irritation, skin conditions, or chronic fatigue.

When Is This Test Useful?

  • Chronic respiratory symptoms (e.g., wheezing, coughing, sneezing)
  • Sinus issues or persistent nasal congestion
  • Skin irritation, including eczema or rashes
  • Headaches or chronic fatigue of unknown origin
  • Living or working in a mold-prone environment (e.g., water-damaged buildings)

Molds Tested in the Panel:

The following 15 mold species are tested for allergen-specific IgE antibodies:

Common Indoor & Outdoor Molds:

  • Alternaria alternata – Found in soil and decaying plants; linked to respiratory allergies.
  • Aspergillus fumigatus – Grows in compost and damp environments; may cause asthma or fungal infections.
  • Cladosporium herbarum – Common indoor allergen; found on wood and plant debris.
  • Penicillium notatum – Often found on food and building materials; linked to mold allergies and asthma.
  • Trichoderma viride – Found in soil and wood; associated with respiratory irritation.

Soil & Plant-Based Molds:

  • Fusarium moniliforme – Found in soil and grains; may cause respiratory and skin symptoms.
  • Phoma betae – Common in decaying vegetation; linked to respiratory reactions.
  • Stemphylium botryosum – Present in soil and plant matter; can trigger allergic symptoms.
  • Curvularia lunata – Found on seeds and plants; associated with allergic rhinitis.

Yeast-like Fungi:

  • Candida albicans – Normally present in the body; overgrowth can lead to fungal infections and allergies.
  • Pityrosporum orbiculare – Found on skin; associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Storage & Decay Molds:

  • Epicoccum purpurascens – Grows on rotting fruits and leaves; can trigger respiratory and skin allergies.
  • Mucor racemosus – Found in decaying organic matter; linked to respiratory symptoms.
  • Rhizopus nigricans – Common in decomposing material; can cause sinus issues and allergic responses.
  • Helminthosporium halodes – Found in agricultural settings; may cause breathing issues.

Additional Test:

  • Total IgE:
  • Measures the total amount of IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate general allergic sensitization.

Test Information:

  • Fasting Requirement: Not required
  • Time of Day: Can be performed at any time
  • Test Duration: Results are typically available in 21 business days, excluding sample transport time

Why This Test Matters:

Understanding your specific mold sensitivities can help guide:

  • Environmental changes (e.g., mold remediation, air filtration)
  • Personalized allergy treatments
  • Clinical decision-making in allergy or ENT practices
  • Improved management of chronic respiratory and dermatological symptoms