ALLERGIES IN CHILDREN: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MOLD ALLERGY
The Diagnosis of Mold Allergy
Diagnosis of mold allergy rests on an allergic history followed by intracutaneous testing.
Scratch tests are not to be used for molds because they are not reliable. The reading of the test is usually done fifteen minutes after performing it; however, molds are known to cause delayed reactions which show up one or two days after the test. The number of tests necessary to diagnose a mold allergy varies with the training and experience of the allergist who is performing them.
The Treatment of Mold Allergy
Treatment consists of weekly injections of a weak solution of mixed mold extract, to be increased in potency until a maximum tolerated dosage is reached after four to five months. Once that dosage is reached, the period between injections is prolonged until only one injection per month is given for a period of two to three years. These injections provide relief from allergy symptoms in about 80 percent of the mold-sensitive children thus treated. Even in institutes which specialize in mold allergy, the results are not superior.
Bye-Mold: Sold by Allergy-Free Products for the Home, Springfield, Missouri. Impregon: Made by Fleming Company, St. Louis. Ammonium compounds: Zephiran Chloride, Roccal, and other chlorine solutions, found in drugstores all over the country. Paraformaldehyde crystals: Two ounces left in an open jar for several days in a room that is well ventilated prior to reuse.
Formalin (37 percent formaldehyde): The liquid is to be poured into a wide-mouth container until about one-half inch deep. The number of containers used varies with the size of the basement, and it is most important that the basement be thoroughly aired out before use.
Lysol solution: To use in cleaning the walls and floor of the room.
Electrostatic air purifiers.
Dehumidifiers and desiccants: For example a cloth sack containing two to three pounds of calcium chloride suspended above a pail to collect the drippings.
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Tags: Allergies