If you’ve recently taken a mold exposure blood test and received positive results, you may be wondering what this means for your health and your living environment. Mold exposure is a growing concern, especially in humid climates like Florida, where mold thrives and releases spores into the air. While some level of mold exposure is unavoidable, high levels of specific mold species—such as Aspergillus and Cladosporium—may indicate an issue that requires further investigation.
Mold-related illnesses can range from mild allergic reactions to more severe respiratory or neurological conditions, depending on individual sensitivity and the type of mold and toxins involved. But what do these test results really mean? And more importantly, what should you do next?
What Does a Mold Blood Test Reveal?
A mold exposure blood test—also called a mycotoxin blood test or mold immune response test—is designed to detect mold-related compounds or immune reactions to mold inside the body. These tests typically screen for mold-specific antibodies or mycotoxins, which are toxic byproducts produced by mold species known to affect human health.
While a positive mold test result can be alarming, it does not necessarily mean you are suffering from an illness. Mold spores exist everywhere, and in small amounts, they are generally harmless. However, prolonged exposure to high levels of mold—especially in enclosed spaces—can lead to significant health issues, particularly in mold-sensitive individuals.
The real question is: Where is your mold exposure coming from?
Aspergillus and Cladosporium: The Most Common Molds Found in Blood
Two of the most frequently detected mold species in blood tests are Aspergillus and Cladosporium. These molds are widespread in the environment and can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. While both mold species are found in outdoor air, they can also be a sign of indoor contamination when detected in high amounts.
Aspergillus
This mold is commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and indoor air conditioning systems. Some strains of Aspergillus produce mycotoxins, which can cause respiratory and neurological symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Cladosporium
Often found on damp surfaces like wood, carpet, and insulation, Cladosporium is a well-known allergen that can trigger asthma, sinus infections, and other respiratory issues.
The presence of these molds in your blood may indicate ongoing exposure, but further investigation is needed to determine if your home is the source.
Why Is Mold Exposure So Common in Florida?
Mold growth is a natural part of the ecosystem, but it thrives in hot, humid conditions like those found in Florida. Because mold spores are constantly present in the air, Floridians are exposed to more mold than people in drier climates. This doesn’t mean every exposure is harmful, but homes and buildings with moisture issues—leaky roofs, high indoor humidity, or poor ventilation—can create the perfect conditions for dangerous mold growth.
In humid states like Florida, mold spores from outside air can enter homes through windows, doors, and ventilation systems. If moisture is present indoors, those spores settle and start to colonize, leading to hidden mold problems.
What Are Mycotoxins? The Hidden Danger of Mold Exposure
Mycotoxins are toxic chemicals produced by certain molds, including Stachybotrys (commonly known as black mold). Unlike regular mold spores, mycotoxins cannot be seen or smelled, making them an invisible threat to indoor air quality.
These toxins can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and they have been linked to a range of health issues, including:
- Chronic fatigue
- Neurological symptoms (brain fog, dizziness)
- Respiratory issues (wheezing, coughing)
- Skin irritation
- Immune system suppression
Not everyone reacts to mycotoxins in the same way. Some individuals may develop mold toxicity symptoms, while others may show no reaction at all. This variation makes mold exposure difficult to diagnose based on blood test results alone.
Is Your Home the Source of Mold Exposure?
While mold blood tests provide useful information, they do not tell you where the mold exposure is coming from. The most critical question you need to answer is: Is mold growing in your home?
Mold exposure can come from multiple sources, including workplaces, vehicles, or outdoor environments. However, indoor mold problems are often the biggest concern since enclosed spaces trap mold spores and toxins, leading to prolonged exposure.
The only way to determine if your home is the source is through a comprehensive mold inspection. Standard air sampling tests—such as the ERMI test (more on this in our ERMI test article)—can help detect mold levels, but they do not provide a complete diagnosis.
Why Professional Mold Testing Matters
If you suspect your home may be contributing to your mold exposure, you need a qualified indoor environmental specialist to investigate. ACAC-certified professionals use a combination of mold testing methods, including:
- Indoor air quality analysis
- Moisture mapping and thermal imaging
- HVAC and ventilation system inspections
- Surface and dust sampling for hidden mold
By cross-referencing mold air samples, ERMI test results, and your blood test data, an experienced mold specialist can determine whether your home is a safe or hazardous environment.