Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood serum
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 3–5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Pinpoint mold allergies fast — detect Alternaria alternata sensitization without a doctor's referral
- Manage respiratory health — reduce asthma flare-ups and allergy symptoms with targeted insights
- No special prep needed — just a simple blood draw, no fasting required
- Quick, confidential results — receive results within 3-5 days in your secure online account
- Supports proactive wellness — identify environmental triggers to improve your quality of life
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing wheezing, coughing, or nasal congestion linked to mold exposure
- People with asthma or allergic rhinitis seeking to identify specific triggers
- Those who notice worsening symptoms during spring or fall when mold spores peak
- Anyone proactive about allergy management and environmental health
- Patients monitoring allergic sensitization over time or considering immunotherapy
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online — select your test without a physician referral and choose a convenient lab location
- Visit the lab — a trained phlebotomist collects a small blood sample during a quick appointment
- Access your results — review secure, confidential results online within 3-5 business days
FAQ
What does this test measure? It measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies to Alternaria alternata, a common mold allergen.
Do I need to fast before the test? No fasting or special preparation is required for this blood test.
How accurate is IgE testing for mold allergies? IgE testing has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing mold allergies (Thermo Fisher Scientific 2023).
Can this test detect all mold allergies? No, it is specific to Alternaria alternata; other molds require separate IgE tests.
What if my results are elevated? Elevated IgE levels indicate allergic sensitization; consult a healthcare provider for allergy management options.
Will this test help my asthma? Early identification of mold allergy can reduce asthma exacerbations and improve quality of life (CDC 2024).
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects if you have an allergy to Alternaria alternata by measuring allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. When your immune system identifies this mold as a threat, it produces IgE antibodies that trigger allergic reactions (Mayo Clinic 2024). Alternaria alternata is one of the most common airborne fungal allergens worldwide, linked to asthma and allergic rhinitis (PubMed 2008). The test uses advanced laboratory methods, typically the Thermo Fisher ImmunoCAP immunoassay, to quantify your antibody levels and confirm allergic sensitization.
Who would benefit from this test?
You may benefit from this test if you experience symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, or skin rash that worsen with mold exposure (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2023). It's particularly helpful for individuals with underlying respiratory conditions like asthma or those who notice symptoms flare during spring and fall when spore counts peak. People proactive about wellness and allergy management can use this test to identify environmental triggers without needing a physician referral, allowing for faster intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
When should I order the Alternaria Alternata Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test when you experience allergy symptoms related to mold exposure, especially in damp indoor environments or during high-spore seasons. It's valuable as part of a broader allergy evaluation if you have unexplained respiratory symptoms, persistent nasal congestion, or worsening asthma. You may also consider testing if you're monitoring allergic sensitization over time or planning immunotherapy (Johns Hopkins Medicine 2022). Since Alternaria thrives in dark, moist conditions both indoors and outdoors, testing helps confirm whether this specific mold is your trigger.
How do I interpret the results?
Your results categorize IgE levels to indicate your degree of allergic sensitization. Medical consultation is recommended for personalized interpretation and treatment planning.
Negative/Low:
- No significant allergic sensitization detected
- Continue monitoring symptoms; consider other allergens
Moderate:
- Allergic sensitization is present with a moderate immune response
- Avoid mold exposure; discuss medications with your provider
High:
- Strong allergic sensitization and significant immune response
- Minimize exposure; consider immunotherapy and a structured treatment plan
Early identification of mold allergies can reduce emergency care visits and lower healthcare costs associated with asthma exacerbations (CDC 2024).
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting or medication adjustments are required before this test. Simply schedule your blood draw at a convenient walk-in lab or collection facility. The sample is collected via standard venipuncture and shipped to the laboratory under controlled conditions. You can maintain your normal diet, medications, and daily routine leading up to the test.
How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your symptoms, treatment plan, and allergy management goals. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
- Initial diagnosis of mold allergy symptoms: Once to establish baseline sensitization
- Monitoring response to immunotherapy: Every 6–12 months as advised by provider
- Worsening or new allergy symptoms: As needed to reassess sensitization levels
- Routine allergy management: Annually or as symptoms dictate
Why early detection matters
Identifying your Alternaria alternata allergy early allows you to take control of your respiratory health and prevent serious complications. Mold allergies can trigger asthma exacerbations, chronic sinus issues, and reduced quality of life if left unmanaged. By confirming your specific allergen triggers, you can implement targeted environmental controls—such as maintaining dry indoor spaces, using air purifiers, and regular cleaning—to minimize exposure. Early detection also enables timely treatment with medications or immunotherapy, reducing the risk of emergency care visits and improving long-term health outcomes (CDC 2024). Proactive testing empowers you to make informed lifestyle adjustments and work with your healthcare provider on a personalized allergy management plan.
Related tests you may consider
Allergen Profile Mold Blood Test— assesses sensitization to multiple mold species beyond Alternaria alternata
Total IgE Test — provides context on your overall allergic response and immune system status
Respiratory Allergy Panel Region 2 — screens for common environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander commonly found in the Washington DC, Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, and Virginia region.
