Mold Testing Services

Cinnaminson, New Jersey, February 11, 2025

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus are the most common indoor molds. There are numerous species of Cladosporium and many produce fungal colonies that can appear as olive, brown, or black in color.

Naturally occurring Cladosporium spores in the outdoor environment are present year-round in many areas. Indoors, Cladosporium is often found in humid environments, on wet surfaces, and in properties that have suffered water damage. 

Exposure to elevated concentrations of Cladosporium indoors or outdoors is known to be a common cause of allergies. Exposure could also trigger an asthma attacks in some asthmatics. Inhaling Cladosporium, or other types of fungi, could even act as a respiratory irritant, or be a concern for people are already suffering from various respiratory diseases. Some Cladosporium species are recognized as opportunistic human pathogens, although infections are rare. These infections can occur as skin, eye, sinus, or lung infections.

“For most healthy people, exposure to fungal opportunistic pathogens usually does not result in disease, but that is not necessarily the case for those with a suppressed or weakened immune system,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “The presence of high levels of Cladosporium and various other fungi in places that house people who may be susceptible to infections, like hospitals, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes, is a concern.”

To identify mold and other microbial contaminants, EMSL Analytical operates laboratories across North America that offer environmental, industrial hygiene, infection control, and material testing services. They also provide sampling supplies, easy-to-use test kits, air monitoring instruments, building inspection tools, and personal protective equipment. EMSL has even sponsored an educational video about Cladosporium as a common indoor air quality contaminant that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/X79DwG1yb7U 

To learn more about mold or other microbial testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com, or call (800) 220-3675. To access mold or other test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.