Stachybotrys chartarum/atra (RGm24) IgE

The Stachybotrys chartarum/atra (RGm24) IgE test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test is a specific diagnostic tool utilized to detect IgE antibodies produced in response to the fungus Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as Stachybotrys atra. This mold is commonly referred to as "black mold" and can produce mycotoxins which may lead to health problems in susceptible individuals.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody Test May Be Ordered

This test is typically ordered:

1. When patients exhibit symptoms consistent with mold allergies, such as nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation.
2. In individuals who have been exposed to environments with potential mold contamination or water damage and are showing unexplained respiratory or allergic symptoms.
3. For differential diagnosis of allergic reactions when other allergens have been ruled out.

What a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody Test Checks For

The test detects the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to exposure to Stachybotrys chartarum/atra. The presence of these antibodies indicates that the person has been sensitized and may be allergic to the mold.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody Test

When a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra IgE antibody test is ordered, it's usually part of a broader evaluation of allergic responses or respiratory issues. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

1. Total IgE:

   • Purpose: To measure the total level of IgE antibodies in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To provide a baseline assessment of allergic propensity, although it is not specific to mold allergies.

2. Specific IgE Allergy Panel for Other Molds and Common Allergens:

   • Purpose: To test for IgE antibodies against a variety of other molds and common environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal dander, and dust mites.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To identify or rule out other potential allergies, as individuals with one type of allergy may be at increased risk for others.

3. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

   • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To identify any underlying conditions such as eosinophilia, which can be associated with allergic reactions.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s allergic status and respiratory health. They are important for confirming the diagnosis of mold allergy, assessing the severity of allergic responses, and guiding appropriate environmental and medical interventions. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, history of allergies, and exposure risks.

Conditions or Diseases Requiring a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody Test

The primary condition associated with this test is allergic reactions to Stachybotrys chartarum/atra. Prolonged exposure can also lead to more severe health issues such as respiratory problems or, in rare cases, memory loss or lethargy.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of a Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody Test

The results of the test provide healthcare providers with:

• Diagnostic Clarity: Confirming an allergy to Stachybotrys chartarum/atra helps differentiate symptoms from other potential allergens.
• Treatment Guidance: Once the allergy is confirmed, healthcare providers can recommend appropriate treatment strategies, which may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications. They might also recommend environmental interventions to reduce exposure to the mold.
• Environmental Assessment: If an individual tests positive, it might prompt an assessment of their living or working environment to identify and remediate mold issues.

In summary, the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test is instrumental in diagnosing allergies specifically to "black mold" and helping healthcare providers guide patients towards effective treatments and interventions.

Most Common Questions About the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra (RGm24) IgE test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications

What is the primary goal of the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test?

The primary goal of the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test is to identify the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the patient's blood that react against Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as Stachybotrys atra), a black mold. Detecting these antibodies can help diagnose allergic reactions or sensitivities to this mold, which is often found in damp or water-damaged environments.

Why would a healthcare provider recommend the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test?

A healthcare provider may recommend the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test if a patient presents with symptoms consistent with mold allergies, such as coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, or eye irritation, and there is a suspicion or evidence of exposure to Stachybotrys chartarum/atra. This test can aid in confirming the source of the allergic reaction and guiding appropriate management and treatment.

Interpretation of Results

What does a positive result from the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test indicate?

A positive result from the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test indicates that the patient's blood contains specific IgE antibodies against Stachybotrys chartarum/atra. This suggests that the patient has been sensitized to this mold and may experience allergic reactions upon exposure.

If the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test yields a negative result, does this conclusively rule out an allergy to this mold?

A negative result suggests that the patient does not have detectable levels of IgE antibodies specific to Stachybotrys chartarum/atra in their blood. While this typically means that the individual is not allergic to this mold, it doesn't conclusively rule out the possibility. There might be other allergens or factors causing the patient's symptoms, or the patient might have non-IgE mediated reactions to the mold.

Clinical Implications

How can results from the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test inform therapeutic decisions?

Results from the Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test can guide healthcare providers in determining the best treatment approach. If the test is positive, indicating an allergy to this specific mold, the primary recommendation would typically be to avoid exposure by removing the mold source or mitigating the patient's environment. Additionally, antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other allergy medications might be prescribed to manage symptoms.

What follow-up tests or procedures might be recommended after a positive Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test?

After a positive Stachybotrys chartarum/atra RGm24 IgE Antibody test, further allergy testing might be recommended to identify other potential allergens, especially if the patient's symptoms are not entirely consistent with mold exposure or if the environment has multiple potential allergenic substances. This can help in creating a comprehensive management plan. Additionally, procedures or interventions to address the mold in the patient's living or working environment might be suggested.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.