Duplicate Skin Testing is Helpful for Identifying Mold Sensitivity

Mold allergy is difficult to diagnose due to lack of standardized test material. A recent study evaluated if there are differences in skin-prick tests from different manufacturers and how they are comparable to results from specific IgE testing.

The study included 169 patients with mold-induced respiratory symptoms. Skin-prick tests from four manufacturers were used to duplicate testing on patient’s arms.  Specific IgE testing for mold species were performed as well. Positive results for mold sensitization were found in 54% of patients by skin prick test versus 33% by specific IgE measurement.  Compared to specific IgE, SPTs had test efficiencies greater than 80%.

Skin prick tests are sensitive tool for evaluation of suspected mold allergy. It is well-recognized that products for mold skin testing are highly variable.

Our practice carries mold species from multiple manufacturers and we perform skin testing for patients with mold exposure and mold-induced upper and lower respiratory symptoms.

Author

Saraleen Benouni, MD Dr. Benouni specializes in the treatment of asthma, allergies, atopic dermatitis, and immune disorders for both adults and children. She has presented and published research at national allergy meetings and has authored papers on drug allergies and skin conditions. She is a member of the American College and American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, and the Los Angeles Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology.