Description

Penicillium Allergy Test

for two allergens: Penicillium chrysogenum (P. notatum) m1 and Penicillium glabrum m209

Imagine working in a damp environment or handling mouldy foods, only to find yourself sneezing, coughing, or struggling to breathe. These symptoms might be a sign that you have a Penicillium allergy.

Symptoms of Penicillium Allergy

If you experience any of the following symptoms after exposure to moldy environments or certain foods, it could be a sign of a Penicillium allergy:

• Sneezing and runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Coughing and wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives
• Asthma symptoms

What is Penicillium?

Penicillium is a genus of fungi that includes over 250 species, making it one of the four most common fungal causes of allergies in humans. Penicillium chrysogenum (formerly P. notatum) is well-known for its role in producing penicillin, while Penicillium glabrum is associated with suberosis, an occupational hypersensitivity linked to cork production. These fungi are prevalent both indoors and outdoors, thriving in damp conditions and on organic material.

Differences between Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium glabrum

• Penicillium chrysogenum (P. notatum):
  • Commonly found in soil and air.
  • Known for producing penicillin.
  • Associated with respiratory allergic symptoms like allergic rhinitis, asthma, and allergic broncho-pulmonary mycosis.
  • Major allergens: Pen ch 13 and Pen ch 18.
  • Sensitisation is common in both children and adults, more so in adults.
• Penicillium glabrum:
  • Commonly found in homes and associated with damp environments.
  • The main causative agent of suberosis, an occupational lung disease in cork industry workers.
  • Sensitisation is common among cork workers, leading to hypersensitive pneumonitis (HP) and asthma.
  • Notable allergens include proteins of 12–13.5 kDa and 33 kDa.

Why can a Penicillium allergy be a problem?

Exposure to Penicillium can lead to significant respiratory issues, impacting daily life. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like sneezing and nasal congestion to severe asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. For individuals working in environments with high Penicillium exposure, such as the cork industry or damp indoor environments, the risk is even higher.

What should I do if I suspect a Penicillium allergy?

If you think you might have a Penicillium allergy, it’s important to get tested to confirm and take steps to manage your exposure. Identifying Penicillium as a trigger for your symptoms is crucial for effective allergy management.

Why choose our Penicillium allergy testing kit?

Discover if Penicillium is affecting your health with our Penicillium allergy testing kit:

• Simple process: Our kit includes two easy-to-use finger prick samples. Follow the instructions, mail your samples back, and within three weeks, you’ll receive your results.
• Accurate results: Utilizing advanced technology, our testing kit provides precise and reliable outcomes.
• Convenience: You can test for a Penicillium allergy from the comfort of your home without the need to visit a clinic.
• Comprehensive testing: Our kit checks for specific markers related to Penicillium sensitivity, ensuring a thorough evaluation.
• Expert consultation: Upon receiving your results, you have the option to consult with our experienced specialists for tailored advice and a personalised treatment plan. Managing a Penicillium allergy effectively can help improve your quality of life.

Take control of your Penicillium allergy

Take charge of your health with our Penicillium allergy testing kit. Our reliable results and specialist advice will help you manage your allergy with confidence. Order your kit today and take the first step towards a symptom-free lifestyle.

Please note this test is for an environmental mould and it is NOT a drug allergy test for penicillin antibiotic.

 

How to do Penicillium allergy test

This allergy test is either suitable for self collection (remote test) or for the sample collection in the laboratory.

For remote collection up to 3 allergens can be done from the same sample from one checkout (this test is for two allergens and only one extra allergen can be added).

For laboratory collection there is no limit on the number of allergens tested.

You will receive results of the tests in your portal. (Please create log in for the results portal here https://ukallergy.carebit.co/patients/accounts/sign-up)