Allergy, Moulds Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Allergy, Moulds Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Mould Allergy Panel, Mould IgE Panel, Fungal Allergy Panel, Specific IgE Mould Test |
| Sample Type | Serum (venous blood) |
| Fasting Required | No, no special preparation required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages, particularly those with respiratory symptoms or exposure to damp environments |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,300 |
What is an Allergy, Moulds Test?
The Allergy, Moulds test is a blood test that measures your immune system's response to common mould species. It detects specific IgE (immunoglobulin E) antibodies, which the body produces when it reacts to allergens such as fungi and mould spores. Doctors order this test when a patient has persistent allergy-like symptoms that may be linked to mould exposure. It is also known as the Mould Allergy Panel or Fungal Allergy Panel.
What Does an Allergy, Moulds Test Measure?
This test analyses IgE antibodies against several common mould allergens, as well as total IgE levels in the blood. The following are the key parameters covered in the panel.
| Parameter | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| Specific IgE to Alternaria alternata | A mould found outdoors and in damp indoor spaces, linked to respiratory symptoms and asthma flare-ups |
| Specific IgE to Aspergillus fumigatus | A common indoor mould associated with respiratory allergies and a condition called ABPA (allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis) |
| Specific IgE to Cladosporium herbarum | One of the most widespread airborne outdoor moulds, a frequent trigger of allergic rhinitis |
| Specific IgE to Penicillium chrysogenum | A common indoor mould that can cause allergic reactions in sensitised individuals |
| Specific IgE to Candida albicans | A fungus that can provoke IgE-mediated allergic responses |
| Total IgE | Measures overall IgE levels in the blood; does not identify the specific allergen causing the reaction |
Why is an Allergy, Moulds Test Done?
This test helps identify whether mould exposure is behind your allergy symptoms. It is useful for diagnosing the cause of symptoms and for planning further management with your doctor.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Your doctor may suggest an Allergy, Moulds test if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent runny or blocked nose
- Sneezing and postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat)
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Cough or wheezing
- Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
- Dry or itchy skin
- Itchy throat or nose
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The mould allergy panel can help identify sensitisation linked to the following conditions:
- Perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever symptoms that continue throughout the year)
- Asthma triggered or worsened by mould spores
- Allergic conjunctivitis (eye inflammation caused by allergen exposure)
- Atopic dermatitis or eczema flares
- Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), a lung condition caused by hypersensitivity to Aspergillus fumigatus
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Very little preparation is needed for this test. The following sections outline what to keep in mind before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for the Allergy, Moulds test. You can eat and drink normally before your sample is collected.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any known allergies, as this is required for the test.
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, especially antihistamines (medicines used to treat allergy symptoms), as these can interfere with results.
- Stay well hydrated before the test, as this makes the blood draw easier.
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose-fitting top for easy access to your arm.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A trained phlebotomist will clean a small area on your arm with an antiseptic wipe.
- A needle is gently inserted into a vein to collect approximately 3 ml of blood into a gel tube.
- The needle is removed, and a small bandage or cotton pad is applied to the site.
- The serum (the liquid portion of your blood) is separated from the sample and stored under refrigeration for transport to the laboratory.
- In the lab, your serum is tested using a method called FEIA (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay). Your IgE antibodies bind to the mould allergens in the test system, and the resulting reaction is measured to produce a result.
- Results are typically ready within 3 days and are reported with both a concentration value (in kU/L) and a class score.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence the accuracy of your mould allergy test results:
- Use of antihistamines before the test
- Very high total IgE levels (above 2,500 kU/L), which can cause non-specific binding and affect readings
- The timing of sample collection relative to recent allergen exposure
- Individual variations in immune response
- Improper sample handling or storage
Understanding Your Allergy, Moulds Test Results
Your results will show IgE antibody levels for each mould allergen tested, expressed in kU/L and grouped into class scores. The table below shows how to read these class scores:
| Class | IgE Level (kU/L) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Class 0 | Less than 0.35 | Negative; no detectable sensitisation |
| Class 1 | 0.35 to 0.69 | Low positive |
| Class 2 | 0.70 to 3.49 | Moderate positive |
| Class 3 | 3.50 to 17.49 | High positive |
| Class 4 and above | 17.50 or more | Very high positive |
| Total IgE (all ages) | 1.5 to 150 | Normal range (varies with age) |
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Levels of 0.70 kU/L or above (Class 2 and higher) are considered elevated.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can affect how results should be read:
- Some individuals may have measurable IgE antibody levels without any clear clinical symptoms. Results must always be read in the context of your full medical history.
- A normal total IgE result does not completely rule out an allergic condition; if your doctor has a strong suspicion of allergy, specific IgE testing may still be recommended.
- In people who have recently travelled to or live in tropical regions, a raised total IgE may reflect a parasitic (worm) infection rather than allergy.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The following general tips can help reduce mould exposure and manage sensitisation:
- Keep your home dry and well ventilated. Open windows regularly and use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Avoid drying clothes indoors, as damp fabric releases moisture that encourages mould growth.
- Use a dehumidifier in areas prone to dampness and repair any water leaks promptly.
Lupin Diagnostics Allergy, Moulds Test Price and Home Collection
The Allergy, Moulds test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,300, and home sample collection is available across cities. The table below shows approximate prices by city.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1920 |
| CHENNAI | 1920 |
| HYDERABAD | 1920 |
| KOLKATA | 1920 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1920 |
| PUNE | 1920 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers Allergy, Moulds test home collection across cities in India. A trained phlebotomist visits your home at a convenient time to collect the blood sample. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and digital reports are shared directly with you.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Allergy, Moulds test is a blood test that checks for IgE antibodies specific to common mould species. It helps identify whether your immune system is reacting to mould allergens, which can be responsible for persistent allergy symptoms. The result guides your doctor in planning appropriate care.
The panel typically includes testing for Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, and Penicillium chrysogenum. These are among the most common mould allergens found both indoors and outdoors.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as usual before the test. However, do inform your doctor about any antihistamines or other medications you are currently taking, as these can affect your results.
Yes, a blood test carries no risk of triggering a severe allergic reaction during the procedure, which is a concern with skin-prick tests. A blood test is often preferred for individuals on certain medications or those with skin conditions that make skin testing unsuitable.
In some people, exposure to mould spores can trigger or aggravate asthma symptoms, including wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Sensitisation to Alternaria alternata, in particular, has been associated with severe asthma episodes in people who already have asthma.
Results are typically ready within 3 days of sample collection. Your digital report will be shared with you via email or WhatsApp once it is ready.
A negative result makes a mould allergy less likely, but it cannot rule it out entirely in all cases. In rare situations, allergy symptoms may be caused by sensitivity to a single allergen not covered by the panel. Your doctor will review your results alongside your clinical history to reach a conclusion.
Allergy, Moulds Test: Booking, Price, and Results
