Alternaria alternata mold IgE is a specific marker included in allergy panels that helps identify if an individual has an allergic sensitivity to a common type of fungus known as Alternaria alternata. This mold is widely found in the environment, thriving outdoors in soil, plants, and rotting vegetation, and can also make its way indoors through open doors, windows, and ventilation systems. People who are sensitive to this mold may experience allergic reactions when they inhale its spores, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and asthma exacerbations.

Alternaria alternata is one of the most common fungi associated with asthma.

Alternaria alternata is one of the most common fungi associated with asthma.

The major tissue sites of aluminum toxicity are the nervous system, immune system, bone, liver, and red blood cells. Aluminum may also interfere with heme (porphyrin) synthesis.

SOURCES:

Found in virtually all foodand food additives, water, air, and soil. Also found in antacids, antiperspirants, cosmetics, astringents, cans, pots, pans, siding, roofing, and foil.

NUTRIENT INTERACTIONS:

Calcium deficiency, citric acid, and low gut pH causes increased Al absorption. Low iron intake increases Al absorption (rat study). Selenium may be protective against Al. Al reduces phosphorus and fluoride absorption. Al disrupts lipid membrane fluidity, altering Fe, magnesium, and calcium homeostasis, causing oxidative stress.

The Minerals & Metals Test by Equi.Life measures aluminum levels in hair, offering insight into the body’s exposure to and excretion of this metal. Aluminum is not naturally required by the human body, and excessive exposure or accumulation can be toxic. Measuring aluminum levels in hair provides a reflection of long-term exposure.

SOURCES:

Found in virtually all food and food additives, water, air, and soil. Also found in antacids, antiperspirants, cosmetics, astringents, cans, pots, pans, siding, roofing, and foil.

The major tissue sites of aluminum toxicity are the nervous system, immune system, bone, liver, and red blood cells. Aluminum may also interfere with heme (porphyrin) synthesis.

The major tissue sites of aluminum toxicity are the nervous system, immune system, bone, liver, and red blood cells. Aluminum may also interfere with heme (porphyrin) synthesis.

Urinary aluminum (Al) provides an indication of very recent or ongoing exposure to the potentially toxic metal. Urine accounts for greater than 95% of Al excretion from the body. Compromised renal function increases the risk of Al retention in the very young, elderly and patients with renal disease.

The major tissue sites of aluminum toxicity are the nervous system, immune system, bone, liver, and red blood cells. Aluminum may also interfere with heme (porphyrin) synthesis.

The "Aluminum, Plasma/Serum" test measures the level of aluminum in your blood, specifically in the plasma or serum component. Aluminum is the third most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is commonly found in our environment, including water, food, and some consumer products. While it's generally considered non-toxic at low levels, exposure to high levels of aluminum can lead to health issues, especially in individuals with compromised kidney function or those exposed to the metal through occupational hazards, medical treatments, or excessive use of aluminum-containing products.