Microbial Express Labs

SIZE MATTERS: A very simplified image showing how deep mold spores 🦠of different sizes can pe*****te into the lungs 🫁 and the resulting type of illness 🤒 that can follow in susceptible people.
•
Microbial Express Labs
1622 East North Street
Greenville, SC 29607
☎️: 864-203-7355
•

Surface sampling is a fast and effective way to gather possible fungal 🦠material for laboratory 🔬analysis. A TAPE LIFT is an excellent non-destructive method of sampling and should be used instead of a swab, if the surface is dry and flat enough that your thumb can be depressed easily to it.

Method: select an area of most concern. This area will preferably have visible discoloration of mildew or water damage.

An easy inexpensive method that can be substituted for Bio-Tape will require a roll of clear scotch tape and a ziplock baggie.

Obtain a 3-4 inch piece of tape. Fold one end of the tape (about an inch in length) onto itself, sticky side to sticky side. This will give you something to hold onto as you sample. Leave the remaining portion of the tape exposed.

Next, gently press the sticky side of the tape against the area you are testing. You will only need a sample about the size of your thumb.
Note: It is important to only press the tape against the mold one time. Multiple samples from the same area on the same surface of tape will create an inaccurate detection of the amount of mold present.

Lastly adhere the sticky side of the tape to the inside of a ziplock baggie, seal baggie, label, and deliver to the laboratory for analysis.
•
Microbial Express Labs
1622 East North Street
Greenville, SC 29607
☎️: 864-203-7355
•

CLADOSPORIUM:

Cladosporium produces olive-green to brown or black colonies. Conidia (aka: spores) of this genus represent one of the most common fungal components isolated from indoor and outdoor air.

Cladosporium can easily grow and spread within your home when spores come in contact with hospitable damp surfaces. Inadequate ventilation and high humidity levels will also contribute to the growth of this type of mold.

Cladosporium is most often found on moist window frames, in dirty refrigerators, bathrooms, under or around sinks, and on fiberglass duct liners in the interior of supply ducts. It can grow on surfaces like carpets, curtains, upholstered furniture, on or behind wallpaper, under floors, and on wood or drywall.

The distinction between Cladosporium and other black molds is virtually impossible without microscopic technique.

Even in healthy individuals, prolonged exposure can cause allergies or asthma-like symptoms. People with preexisting respiratory issues are most vulnerable and at the greatest risk for more severe complications.
•
Microbial Express Labs
1622 East North Street
Greenville, SC 29607
☎️: 864-203-7355
•

Unfortunately symptoms from mold 🦠 exposure are very similar to the symptoms associated with seasonal allergies; sneezing, itching, runny nose, congestion, watery eyes, fatigue. 🤧
To help pinpoint the cause, take the following into account.

📍Consider Timing: Most seasonal allergies typically occur between late-February through early September, while mold allergies can occur year-round.

Note: Outdoor molds are most prevalent on warm humid days and mold growth typically peaks during July in warmer states and October in colder states.

📍When are your symptoms worse: If your most affected after spending time outside it’s probably seasonal, but if you feel your symptoms worsen in certain indoor spaces, mold may be the culprit.

Like any allergen, If you think you have a sensitivity, the best defense is reducing your exposure.

If you suspect indoor mold is the cause, call into the lab today and we can put you in touch with a specialist we trust.
•
Microbial Express Labs
1622 East North Street
Greenville, SC 29607
☎️: 864-203-7355
•