CIRS-protocol mold testing

For patients in CIRS-protocol treatment programs needing environment-side testing aligned with Shoemaker / Brewer protocols.

Schedule health-concern test (716) 410-6767

ProtocolShoemaker · Brewer

TestsERMI · HERTSMI-2

CIH reviewedYes

CoverageNY · PA

How it works in NY & PA

CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) testing protocols developed by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker and refined by Dr. Joseph Brewer use environmental ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) dust analysis paired with patient-side urinary mycotoxin testing to identify mold-exposure patterns in chronically-ill patients. The environmental side of CIRS testing is what we provide. Patient-side mycotoxin urinalysis is performed by your treating physician's clinical lab. Our CIRS-protocol environmental work includes: ERMI dust sampling from settled dust at 2-3 locations (typically bedroom + living room + basement); HERTSMI-2 scoring (the 5-species subset specifically validated for CIRS); detailed home moisture-history interview; visible-mold-source identification with photographic documentation; remediation scope if mold sources are identified; and post-remediation re-testing to verify CIRS-acceptable conditions. Important scope clarification: we are environmental testers, not CIRS-protocol clinicians. The diagnostic interpretation of ERMI / HERTSMI-2 in the context of a specific patient's medical condition remains with the treating physician. Our role is providing the environmental data your treating physician needs.

Who this is for

Common scenarios

Patients in active CIRS-protocol treatment with Shoemaker or Brewer practitioners
Pre-purchase buyers with known CIRS sensitivities evaluating prospective homes
Post-remediation verification for CIRS-acceptable conditions
Family members of CIRS patients evaluating shared environment
Patients seeking second opinion on prior ERMI results

— — Why Environmental Air Solutions

The wedge

→Independent of mold remediation. Methodology not influenced by remediation scope
→AIHA-accredited lab (EMSL Analytical) for ERMI DNA analysis
→HERTSMI-2 scoring per the validated 5-species subset
→CIH-reviewed final report
→Clinical-shareable report format suited to CIRS-protocol clinicians

Regulatory references

EPA Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) Method
Shoemaker Protocol, CIRS Diagnosis and Treatment Surviving Mold

Common questions

About this service

What is ERMI and HERTSMI-2?

ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) is a quantitative DNA-based mold assessment using settled dust analysis for 36 mold species. HERTSMI-2 is a 5-species subset (Aspergillus penicillioides, Aspergillus versicolor, Chaetomium globosum, Stachybotrys chartarum, Wallemia sebi) specifically validated by Shoemaker for CIRS-relevant environmental scoring. Both come from the same dust sample.

Will ERMI testing identify a 'sick building'?

ERMI scoring (and HERTSMI-2 scoring) helps quantify whether a building has elevated mold relative to a reference population. But it's a screening tool, not a clinical diagnosis of the building. Two homes with identical ERMI scores may produce very different clinical outcomes in different patients. The interpretation belongs to your treating physician.

How much does CIRS-protocol environmental testing cost?

ERMI dust analysis at 2 locations + HERTSMI-2 scoring + CIH-reviewed report: $695-$875. Add a third location for $195. Visible-mold photographic survey at additional $150-$250 per home. Total engagement for typical Buffalo or Pittsburgh home: $850-$1,200.

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