What is qPCR Sampling?
Data Driven MSQPCR Sampling Leads to Comprehensive Solutions
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What is MSQPCR sampling and analysis?
Mold Specific Quantitative Polymer Chain Reaction.
- DNA-based testing of the mold, taking a deeper look at what may be impacting a property.
- Commonly referred to as ERMI analysis when used for mold samples.
- Tests for the DNA trace of 36 different mold species to reveal their presence and concentration levels in a home.
MSQPCR sampling gives us a more detailed analysis of the types of mold and other potential environmental hazards that may be impacting a property and a client’s health. If you’re struggling with a possible environmental issue and haven’t been able to find the right answers, qPCR testing may be the right solution for you.
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What does ERMI Stand for?
Environmental Relevant Moldiness Index
- Derived from a study done by the EPA in the early 2000s to help determine what might be baselines for
low, average, and high when completing qPCR testing. - Known as the ERMI Score System.
- Testing scale used to determine the overall mold contamination within a building.
There is important data in the sampling and methodology itself that we can use. Every case we come across is individual and unique and then figuring out how to use that data best for these types of projects to get to the solution that our clients are looking for.
Did You Know?
MSQPCR testing is crucial for mold-sensitive individuals who have CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) or other mold-related illness and are working with a doctor for a specific treatment plan.
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Why should an ERMI score always be used with additional data?
- Over the years, independent environmental specialists (IDPs) began to rely solely on the EMRI scores when
evaluating homes instead of looking at the other contributing factors, such as individual mold types,
concentration levels, relative humidity, etc... The ERMI score should be used as one tool in our arsenal to
complete a comprehensive investigation. When used alone, an ERMI score has much less significance in
determining what the most effective next steps should be. - At Mold Inspection Sciences, we’ve compiled our own database, based on thousands of investigations, of
average, normal, and high, which allows us to give clients more detailed results and next steps. - The bottom line is that qPCR data and individual mold types are invaluable data for a comprehensive
investigation.
Download Our qPCR Sampling Guide
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MSQPCR (mold-specific qPCR) sampling gives us a more detailed analysis of the types of mold and other potential environmental hazards that may be impacting a property and a client’s health
What is the HERTSMI Scoring System?
- Developed by one of the leading medical professionals in the medical end of the industry, Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker.
- Condensed and less comprehensive version of the qPCR sample test that only tests for five different types of molds within a home.
- Statistical data that proves when specific species of molds are present in certain concentrations. It can be used to link the results with various health symptoms.
What is EMMA Testing?
- Not a commonly used analysis, but can provide another data point to help in determining the concentration level of contamination.
- Another type of qPCR testing known as the Environmental Mold and Mycotoxin Assessment.
- Tests at the DNA level for ten molds and 16 mycotoxins which are then tied to a urinalysis sample to pinpoint whether or not exposure is happening inside the home.