SPECIALTY SERVICE
Contact Dermatitis & Patch Testing
Patch testing is a specialized allergy test used to identify delayed contact allergies that may be causing ongoing skin irritation, rashes, or allergic contact dermatitis. These reactions often occur after the skin comes into contact with specific substances found in everyday products and can develop gradually over time.
At Care Allergy, we offer comprehensive patch testing to help identify potential triggers and provide personalized recommendations. This valuable diagnostic tool can help patients better understand their skin reactions and take steps to avoid allergens that may be contributing to their symptoms.
What Is Patch Testing?
Patch testing is a method of allergy testing used to detect delayed contact allergies, sometimes referred to as skin allergies. Unlike immediate allergic reactions that occur within minutes, delayed allergic reactions can take several hours or even days to develop after exposure to an allergen.
This type of testing is commonly used to investigate persistent skin irritation, recurring rashes, and allergic contact dermatitis. Allergic reactions may be caused by substances found in everyday products, including metals, cosmetics, fragrances, hair dyes, preservatives, and other materials that regularly come into contact with the skin.
At Care Allergy, patch testing includes evaluation for approximately 90 of the most common allergens found in North American products. By identifying potential triggers, patients can gain a better understanding of what may be contributing to their symptoms and make informed decisions about product selection and exposure avoidance.
Conditions Evaluated
This testing is commonly used to investigate:
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Persistent skin rashes
- Chronic skin irritation
- Unexplained eczema-like reactions
- Reactions to personal care products, cosmetics, metals, fragrances, and other everyday substances
Common Allergens Tested
We typically evaluate approximately 90 of the most common allergens found in North American products, including fragrances, preservatives, metals, cosmetics, personal care products, adhesives, and other substances that frequently contribute to allergic contact dermatitis.
Understanding Delayed Contact Allergies
Delayed contact allergies differ from many other types of allergic reactions because symptoms do not appear immediately after exposure. Instead, the immune system reacts over time, causing skin symptoms that may develop hours or even days later.
Because the reaction develops slowly, it can be difficult to identify the source of irritation without specialized testing. Many patients experience recurring symptoms for months or years before discovering that a specific ingredient or material is responsible.
Patch testing provides valuable information that helps uncover these hidden triggers and supports the development of an effective management plan tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
The Patch Testing Process
Patch testing is performed over the course of one week and requires three in-office visits.
During the first visit, small patches containing carefully selected allergens are placed on the patient’s back. These patches remain in place to allow the skin to be exposed to potential allergens under controlled conditions.
The second visit involves removing the patches and evaluating the skin for any developing reactions. Because delayed allergic reactions continue to evolve over time, a final assessment is required several days later.
The third visit includes a comprehensive review of the results and identification of any allergens that may have triggered a reaction during testing.
Three In-Office Visits
Patch testing requires the following appointments:
Monday (Approximately 30 Minutes): Patches are applied to the back during a scheduled office visit.
Wednesday (Approximately 30 Minutes): The patches are removed and the skin is examined for any developing reactions.
Friday (Approximately 1 Hour): A final reading is completed and the results are reviewed in detail.
This structured process allows sufficient time for delayed allergic reactions to appear and ensures the most accurate interpretation of results.
CAMP & Safe Product Reports
Upon completion of testing, patients receive access to the Contact Allergy Management Program (CAMP) along with a personalized safe product report. These resources help identify products that do not contain allergens detected during testing and provide guidance for managing allergic contact dermatitis.
Why Patch Testing Matters
For many individuals living with chronic skin irritation or unexplained rashes, identifying the underlying cause can be challenging. Patch testing offers an effective way to uncover potential allergens that may otherwise go unnoticed.
By accurately identifying contact allergens, patients can take targeted steps to avoid triggers, improve symptom control, and support long-term skin health. At Care Allergy, patch testing is an important part of our commitment to providing personalized allergy care and helping patients find lasting answers and relief.