Indoor Allergens and Air Quality

Allergens (Cat, Dog, Rodent, Cockroach, Dust Mites, and Mold) can be measured from dust samples and were previously analyzed using Quantitative Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA), but newer technology has replaced this method and is called Multiplex Array for Indoor Allergens (MARIA).  We can perform sampling in living spaces to determine if excessive levels of allergens are detected.  Based upon levels observed appropriate cleaning or decontamination will be recommended. 

Another tool used to determine airborne levels is an additional particle analysis of fungal bioaerosol samples.  Bioaerosol levels are not as precise as with the dust analysis, but airborne analysis is a good initial screening tool to gather information about the presence of allergens in occupied spaces.

Sensitivity to indoor allergens is a worldwide problem for large segments of the population and is relevant from early childhood through adulthood. Indoor allergens have been shown to play a major role both in sensitization and as triggers of asthma in children.

Dust Mite Allergens


Cat and Dog Allergens


Cockroach Allergens


Rodent Allergens

Rodents (mice and rats) can occur in both home and work environments. Exposure to rodents can come either from keeping them as pets or from their presence as pests in the home. Veterinarians, laboratory technicians, etc., can become allergic to rodents due to intensive exposure to these animals in their daily work. Rodents can also be a problem in schools.  The sources of rodent allergen include the rodent urine and skin flakes. The rodent's urine has a high concentration of protein, which is the primary allergen to humans. The urine is often sprayed rather than deposited, thereby increasing human exposure. After the urine dries, the urinary proteins become airborne and are inhaled by humans, leading to allergic symptoms.

Mold Allergens

Mold is very common and widely distributed outdoors. Mold can flourish in homes when in contact with sufficient water and food. Bathroom condensation, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and water seepage in basements can all lead to mold growth. However, the most common problem leading to mold growth is condensation on cool surfaces due to inappropriately high relative humidity. Mold has been isolated from indoor materials like furniture, carpet, clothing, house dust, paper goods, wood, insulation materials, heating and air-conditioning systems, etc.  The key to reducing mold growth is reducing moisture.

Information provided in this section is not intended to provide medical advice, nor shall it be interpreted as an indicator of potential medical or safety problems. If you have concerns or questions relating to your health, please contact your medical doctor for advice.

Compiled from a 2005 Environmental Microbiology Laboratory, Inc. report.

Dust mite viewed under microscope
A good resource for monitoring outdoor allergen (mold and pollen) levels:

 The National Allergy Bureau™ (NAB™) is the section of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology's (AAAAI) Aeroallergen Network that is responsible for reporting current pollen and mold spore levels to the public.

Follow this link:

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