|
- Skin test: The standard diagnostic test for mold allergies is a skin test. During the test, the skin is exposed to different allergy–causing substances, including mold. The skin is then observed for an allergic reaction. If an allergen triggers an allergic reaction to a test, the patient will develop reddening, swelling or a raised, itchy red wheal (bump) that looks similar to a mosquito bite. The healthcare provider will measure the size of the wheal and record the results. The larger the wheal, the more severe the allergy. A skin test is typically conducted in a healthcare provider's office. Skin tests cause minimal, if any, discomfort. The needles used barely penetrate the skin's surface and will not cause bleeding.
- Allergen–specific immunoglobulin (IgE) test: An allergen–specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) test, commonly referred to as radioallergosorbent test (RAST ®), may also be used to determine whether the patient is allergic to mold. However, this test is less accurate than a skin test. It is usually performed in patients who have coexisting severe skin diseases (like eczema or psoriasis) that make it difficult to interpret a skin test.
- The in vitro test is conducted outside of the body in a laboratory setting. During the procedure, a sample of blood is taken from the patient. The blood is then sent to a laboratory that performs specific IgE blood tests. The mold allergen is bound to an allergosorbent (paper disk). Then the patient's blood is added. If the blood contains antibodies (immunoglobulins that detect and bind to antigens) to the mold antigens, the blood will bind to the allergen on the disc. A radiolabelled ANTI–IgE antibody is then added to the disc to measure the level of immunoglobulin E present in the blood. The higher the radioactivity, the higher the level of IgE in the blood and the more severe the allergy.
- A qualified healthcare provider will interpret the results of the test. In general, the sensitivity of these tests range from 50–90%, with the average being about 70–75%. The patient will receive test results in about 7–14 days.
 |
Learn
