Are Mold-Specific Immunoglobulin G Antibodies in Schoolchildren a Marker of Exposure and Respiratory Disease?

Abstract

Based on experience received from occupational studies, immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to molds have also been used as markers of exposure to molds in homes, schools, or other low-exposure environments. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate mold-specific IgG antibodies measured 3 years apart in children exposed to moisture and molds at school. In 1996, 212 primary school students with asthma, wheezing, or prolonged cough participated in a study, including clinical examination and mold-specific IgG determinations to 24 molds. In 1999, 144 students of the same cohort participated in an identical follow-up study; among them, mold-specific IgG was measured in 121 students. The schools they attended were investigated both technically and microbiologically at both phases of the study. No association was found between IgG antibodies to molds and exposure to moisture or molds in school in either year. Mold-specific IgG antibodies had no significant association with asthma or other long-term allergic or respiratory problems. IgG antibodies to molds seem to be poor markers of exposure among children exposed to moisture or molds at school, and no association was found with asthma or other respiratory problems in primary and secondary school students.