Ordering the Alcat 20 Mold Sensitivity Test
The Alcat 20 Mold Sensitivity Test helps identify which molds may be causing ongoing symptoms like sinus congestion, headaches, or digestive problems by measuring immune cell reactions to 20 common molds. Interestingly, some people may react to molds that are not typically found in their home or work environment, as mold spores can travel long distances through the air.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Pinpoint specific molds that trigger your symptoms
- Reduce unnecessary mold avoidance by identifying only the molds that affect you
- Support your doctor in creating a targeted plan for symptom relief
- Track changes in mold reactivity over time
- Gain clarity on unexplained symptoms that have not improved with other treatments
Who Might Benefit from Mold Reactivity Testing
People who have tried multiple allergy treatments without relief, or who notice symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or brain fog in certain environments, may find this test helpful. For example, someone who feels tired and congested after spending time in a damp basement could use this test to see if mold exposure is a factor.
Ordering this test may also be useful if you:
- Experience seasonal sinus pressure or headaches that do not respond to typical allergy medications
- Have unexplained skin rashes or itching that seem to flare up indoors
- Notice digestive upset or nausea after being in older buildings
- Struggle with memory or focus issues that improve when away from home or work
- Have joint or muscle pain that worsens during rainy or humid weather, which is sometimes linked to mold exposure
Testing for mold reactivity can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about changes to your living or work space, and may help prevent ongoing symptoms from being overlooked. Delaying this test could mean continued exposure to molds that are causing your symptoms, making it harder to find relief.
How to Prepare for Mold Allergen Blood Testing
Fasting is not required for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your blood draw. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected and shipped correctly.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Alcat 20 Mold Sensitivity Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | High Levels Mean |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mold Panel | |||
| Alternaria Alternata | Non-reactive | This mold is common in outdoor air and can trigger respiratory symptoms. The test checks if your immune cells react to Alternaria Alternata. | High levels of Alternaria Alternata reactivity may indicate a link to sinus or lung symptoms. |
| Aspergillus Fumigatus | Non-reactive | Aspergillus is found in soil and decaying matter. The test measures if your immune system is sensitive to this mold. | High levels of Aspergillus Fumigatus reactivity may be linked to coughing or asthma-like symptoms. |
| Botrytis Cinerea | Non-reactive | Botrytis is often found on plants and in greenhouses. The test checks for immune cell response to this mold. | High levels of Botrytis Cinerea reactivity may cause eye irritation or sneezing. |
| Candida Albicans | Non-reactive | Candida is a yeast that can live in the body and environment. The test shows if your immune system reacts to it. | High levels of Candida Albicans reactivity may be linked to digestive upset or skin rashes. |
| Cephalosporium | Non-reactive | Cephalosporium is found in soil and can affect indoor air. The test checks for immune response to this mold. | High levels of Cephalosporium reactivity may be linked to sinus congestion or headaches. |
| Cladosporium Herbarum | Non-reactive | Cladosporium is a common outdoor and indoor mold. The test measures if your immune cells react to it. | High levels of Cladosporium Herbarum reactivity may cause sneezing or throat irritation. |
| Curvularia | Non-reactive | Curvularia is found in soil and plants. The test checks for immune cell response to this mold. | High levels of Curvularia reactivity may be linked to coughing or sinus symptoms. |
| Epicoccum Nigrum | Non-reactive | Epicoccum is found in dust and on plants. The test measures if your immune system reacts to it. | High levels of Epicoccum Nigrum reactivity may cause nasal congestion or sneezing. |
| Fusarium Oxysporum | Non-reactive | Fusarium is found in soil and on crops. The test checks for immune cell response to this mold. | High levels of Fusarium Oxysporum reactivity may be linked to headaches or fatigue. |
| Geotrichum Candidum | Non-reactive | Geotrichum is found in soil, water, and dairy products. The test measures immune response to this mold. | High levels of Geotrichum Candidum reactivity may cause digestive symptoms or skin irritation. |
| Helminthosporium | Non-reactive | Helminthosporium is found on grasses and grains. The test checks for immune cell reaction to this mold. | High levels of Helminthosporium reactivity may be linked to respiratory symptoms or sneezing. |
| Hormodendrum | Non-reactive | Hormodendrum is a group of molds found in soil and decaying wood. The test measures immune response to this mold. | High levels of Hormodendrum reactivity may cause sinus or lung symptoms. |
| Monilla Sitophila | Non-reactive | Monilla is found in stored grains and foods. The test checks for immune cell reaction to this mold. | High levels of Monilla Sitophila reactivity may be linked to digestive upset or headaches. |
| Mucor Racemosus | Non-reactive | Mucor is found in soil and decaying plants. The test measures if your immune system reacts to it. | High levels of Mucor Racemosus reactivity may cause sinus congestion or coughing. |
| Penicillium Notatum | Non-reactive | Penicillium is found in indoor air and foods. The test checks for immune cell response to this mold. | High levels of Penicillium Notatum reactivity may be linked to sneezing or skin rashes. |
| Phoma Destructiva | Non-reactive | Phoma is found in soil and decaying plants. The test measures immune response to this mold. | High levels of Phoma Destructiva reactivity may cause headaches or fatigue. |
| Pullularia | Non-reactive | Pullularia is found in air and on plants. The test checks for immune cell reaction to this mold. | High levels of Pullularia reactivity may be linked to sinus or lung symptoms. |
| Rhizopus Stolonifer | Non-reactive | Rhizopus is found on decaying fruits and vegetables. The test measures immune response to this mold. | High levels of Rhizopus Stolonifer reactivity may cause digestive upset or sneezing. |
| Rhodotorula Rubra | Non-reactive | Rhodotorula is a yeast found in air and water. The test checks for immune cell reaction to this yeast. | High levels of Rhodotorula Rubra reactivity may be linked to skin rashes or fatigue. |
| Spondylocladium | Non-reactive | Spondylocladium is found in soil and decaying plants. The test measures immune response to this mold. | High levels of Spondylocladium reactivity may cause sinus or lung symptoms. |
| Trichoderma Lignorum | Non-reactive | Trichoderma is found in soil and decaying wood. The test checks for immune cell reaction to this mold. | High levels of Trichoderma Lignorum reactivity may be linked to coughing or headaches. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Alcat 20 Mold Sensitivity Test FAQ
Is there Alcat 20 Mold Sensitivity testing near me?
This is a test kit that can be collected at a local draw site, which you can find using the draw location link at the top of the page. For people with ongoing symptoms like sinus congestion or fatigue, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested without added travel or delays.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating doctor should help you interpret your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your results and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you quickly identify which molds are causing your symptoms, so you can start making changes that may help you feel better sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you have ongoing symptoms or if your environment changes. Regular testing can help track changes in your immune response and guide adjustments to your symptom management plan.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses the Alcat method, which measures changes in white blood cell size and volume after exposure to mold antigens, providing a direct assessment of immune cell reactivity. The test has a specificity of 86% and a sensitivity of 83%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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