Texas Mold Remediation Contractor State Practice Exam

Which term describes a substance, such as mold, that can cause allergic reactions?

1. Antigen

2. Allergen

3. Pathogen

4. Contaminant

The correct answer is: Allergen

The term that describes a substance, such as mold, that can cause allergic reactions is "allergen." Allergens are specific substances that provoke an immune response in individuals who are sensitive to them, leading to allergic reactions. Mold releases spores and other particles into the air, which can be inhaled or come into contact with skin, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and skin irritation in susceptible individuals. In contrast, an antigen is generally a broader term that refers to any molecule that can trigger an immune response, but it does not specifically indicate that the response is allergic. A pathogen is an organism that causes disease, which may not necessarily include allergens. Lastly, a contaminant refers to an undesired substance in a particular environment, but it does not specifically relate to the capability of causing allergic reactions. Thus, "allergen" is the most precise term to indicate a substance inducing allergies.