What is Patch Testing?
Patch testing is performed when there is a concern of contact allergies causing a skin rash. Our test includes a standard panel of 29 common contact allergens. In addition we can also test for specific products used by a patient that are not included on the standard test. In order for the patch testing to be accurate, the patient must be off all steroid products for at least 2 weeks prior to the test. This test takes 1 week to complete. On Monday, the tests are placed on the upper back. On Wednesday, the test patches are removed. On Thursday, the patient comes to the office for the initial patch test reading. On the following Monday, the patient comes to the office for a final test reading and review of the results with the physician. The test area must remain dry for the first 48 hours until the patches are removed.
Patch testing is one of several different types of allergy testing methods, which can determine the cause of an allergic rash, or contact dermatitis (see Rashes). Patch tests are performed with standardized concentrations of chemicals from our daily environment that come into contact with the skin, and that are known, through extensive research and testing, to commonly cause contact dermatitis. Patch testing does not test for food allergies or respiratory allergies. Why do patch testing? Patch tests may identify either the cause of or a significant flare factor for a variety of eczematous (rashy) conditions, including rashes of the face, eyelids, scalp, hands and feet, as well as over the entire body. Makeup/cosmetic dermatitis, allergic hair dye reactions, hand and foot eczema, and metal allergic reactions may all be better understood by utilizing patch test procedures. Patients with recurrent episodic flares of an acute rash or with a chronic persistent rash are patch test candidates
Patch testing is a specialized procedure that tests for skin allergies. Allergies may occur to substances that come in contact with your skin. When this happens, a rash develops. An example is a rash that develops to nickel in jewelry. Skin allergy is different than breathing allergies. In an Allergist’s office, you may be tested with pin-prick testing. When we test for skin allergy, we apply patches to your back.
