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Alternaria alternata-Specific IgE

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies to Alternaria alternata mold, helping evaluate possible mold-related allergy.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests allergic sensitization to Alternaria mold and should be interpreted alongside symptoms and medical history."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6020-2
Short code
A alternata IgE Qn
Synonyms
A alternata IgE Qn
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
56
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302773008
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures mold-specific IgE antibodies to Alternaria alternata, a mold commonly found indoors. It is used to evaluate whether allergic sensitization to this mold may be contributing to your symptoms.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have sneezing, congestion, itchy or watery eyes, wheezing, or cough that could be related to mold exposure. It may also be considered when evaluating unexplained allergic symptoms or mold-sensitive asthma.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected by venipuncture, and the laboratory measures IgE antibodies that react to Alternaria alternata. The test does not require you to be exposed to mold or undergo an allergy challenge.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required. Antihistamines and some other allergy medicines can affect results, so tell your clinician about all medications you take. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alternaria IgE

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive Alternaria IgE result mean?
It indicates allergic sensitization to Alternaria alternata. Your clinician will interpret it with your symptoms, medical history, and any other allergy test results.
Does a negative result completely rule out mold allergy?
No. Allergic sensitization can vary over time, and a negative result does not exclude all possible mold-related symptoms or reactions.
Does this test tell me how severe my allergy may be?
No. It identifies IgE sensitization but does not by itself determine reaction severity or establish a diagnosis without clinical evaluation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy