Alternaria tenuis, M6

Alternaria alternata (A. alternata) is a predominantly outdoor mold, but it can also be found indoors. A member of the Pleosporaceae family, the genus Alternaria comprises more than 270 species of dematiaceous (black) hyphomycetes. Geography, seasonality, atmospheric conditions and time of the day influence their distribution. A. alternata spores spread widely on dry, warm, and windy days and usually peak during summer and early autumn. They can also be found in soil. A. alternata is a cosmopolitan mold and one of the most frequent fungal sensitizers, with a sensitization prevalence varying from 0.2% to 14.4% across the globe. Inhalation of A. alternata spores is associated with upper and lower respiratory hypersensitivity, mainly asthma and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis. Allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis may also develop. Allergens of A. alternata are found in both conidia and mycelia.  Alt a 1 is a major allergen and a marker of genuine sensitization to A. alternata. Sensitization to A. alternata is often associated with sensitization to other molds and to other airborne allergenic sources such as pollens and mites. Co-sensitization and cross-reactivity to some food allergens have also been reported.

• Postpone the process of testing immediately after paraclinical studies (roentgen, TC, MRI) and physiotherapy procedures. They can affect test results.

• We recommend avoiding physical activity prior to your examination.