Clinical Definition

Mold is a type of fungus that produces airborne spores. People with mold allergies have an abnormal immune response after exposure to mold spores. After inhalation of mold spores, some individuals develop an antigen-antibody reactions leading to symptoms of hypersensitivity. The most common types of molds that induce allergic reactions include Cladosporium, Penicillium and Aspergillus.

In Our Own Words

Mold, which is a type of fungi, is found both inside and outside and is a common cause of allergies. A mold allergy is an allergic reaction to mold spores, which float in the air.. The immune system responds to the mold spores as if they were dangerous. This immune response involves releasing chemicals including histamine, which causes typical allergy symptoms. There are many types of mold, but only some tend to act as an allergen. One type of outdoor mold, Alternaria, has been linked in particular to asthma.