Interpretation and detection limit

Interpreting the results

Mold remediation QC (Quality Control)
When using the MycoMeter®-test  for testing the efficacy of the cleaning efforts the interpretation of Mycometer results is simple since only Category A results are acceptable.

Category A indicates the background level defined as the mold level typically found on visibly clean surfaces in well maintained buildings without mold problems. When evaluating the quality of a remediation, it is recommended that only Category A results are accepted. The remediation/cleaning methods available today makes this a realistic and appropriate demand.

Documentation of Mold Problems
The primary focus in this line of work is to locate areas with possible mold growth. Documentation of mold growth is a documentation of moist conditions and of a potential health risk.

In general, the higher the MycoMeter-value (MV), the higher the level of mold present in the sample. Studies have shown that MV values above 450 are very rarely found unless mold growth occurs. A Category C result therefore indicates a high mold biomass density found when actual mold growth occurs.

Category B results are obtained from samples with intermediate levels of mold. There are several situations that can lead to a Category B result:                           
Mold spores and other organic debris accumulated in dust
Mold growth which has been dried out for a long period.
Low density mold growth.

Low density mold growth can occur if immediate steps have been taken for a rapid and efficient drying, allowing for only a short period with adequate moisture conditions for germination and growth of mold.

Mold can grow on surfaces of almost all materials including materials without  visible nutrients such as glass or metal. On such materials mold scavenge nutrients from air or from dust/dirt resulting in a low biomass density.

If mold growth has been kept dry for a long period, e.g. if the building moisture problem has been repaired  but the mold was not removed, then a Category B result might be obtained due to a decrease in the enzyme activity.

The Category B result is typically obtained if sampling on a dusty surface with no mold growth. Spores continually settle on the interior surfaces of buildings and are a normal constituent of house dust. Inadequate or inefficient cleaning standard can result in excessive accumulation of spores in house dust. It should be noted that ongoing research suggests that organic debris in the dust other than mold spores may contain the enzyme (see also “Precautions” p 26).

Detection Limit

The MycoMeter®-test can be used to detect fungal biomass in the nanogram range (10-9 gram).