Serum IgG and IgE antibodies against mold-derived antigens in patients with symptoms of hypersensitivity

Background: Exposure to mold in water-damaged buildings has been suggested to be responsible for various health problems such as hypersensitivity and upper respiratory tract diseases. However, only little information is avail able on possible diagnostic tools for examining mold-associated health prob lems. Methods: We used recently developed immuno-fluorametric IgG and IgE a ssays (UniCAP (TM)) to examine serum IgG and IgE antibodies against mold-de rived allergens from 70 mold-exposed individuals with (n=55) or without (n= 15) symptoms of sensitization. Controls were healthy individuals (n=31) wi thout any history of such exposure. Results: The IgG titers exceeded the up per normal limits of control individuals (mean +/-2 S.D.) in 35% of symptom atic men and in 25% of women. The IgG titers were usually higher in women t han in men (P<0.05) showing no significant association with the severity of symptoms. During follow-up of eight mold-exposed subjects for 9-12 months the IgG titers remained relatively constant. Elevated anti-mold IgEs were f ound in six (11%) of the exposed subjects who were all symptomatic. Conclus ions: Measurements of anti-mold IgGs may help to confirm exposure in patien ts with hypersensitivity symptoms and evidence of mold growth in living or working environment. Some exposed symptomatic patients present IgE-mediated responses. Combined measurements of IgGs and IgEs may prove to be of value in the comprehensive assessment and treatment of such patients. <(c)> 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.