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Alternaria alternata IgE, Serum — Quantitative

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

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies to Alternaria alternata, a mold, to help evaluate possible mold allergy.

Quick summary

["An elevated result suggests an immune response to Alternaria alternata mold, but must be interpreted alongside symptoms and exposure history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
64977-2
Short code
A alternata (rAlt a) 6 IgE Qn
Synonyms
A alternata (rAlt a) 6 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 the amount of allergen-specific IgE antibodies directed against Alternaria alternata, a commonly encountered indoor and outdoor mold. It is used to help assess whether mold may contribute to allergic symptoms.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have wheezing, coughing, nasal congestion, sneezing, or eye symptoms that occur around mold exposure. It may also be used as part of an allergy evaluation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and tested in a laboratory for antibodies to Alternaria alternata. The result is reported as a measured level, which your clinician will interpret with your medical history and other allergy findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required. Antihistamines and some other allergy treatments can affect results, so tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements you use and follow any testing instructions you receive.

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 alternata IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to mold?
It indicates sensitization to Alternaria alternata, but it does not by itself prove that the mold is causing your symptoms. Your clinician will interpret the result alongside your history, examination, and other allergy tests.
Can skin testing be used instead?
Yes. Skin-prick testing is another way to assess immediate allergic sensitization. The appropriate testing method depends on your symptoms, medical history, and the clinician's evaluation.
Do I need to avoid mold if my result is positive?
Discuss exposure reduction with your clinician, especially if symptoms occur in damp or moldy environments. Avoiding visible mold and keeping indoor humidity moderate may help limit exposure.
  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