At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery, we understand that skin sensitivities and allergies can significantly impact your quality of life. That’s why we offer comprehensive patch testing to help identify specific allergens that may be causing your skin reactions.

This process involves applying small amounts of allergens to your skin and monitoring for any signs of an allergic reaction. By combining these results with your medical history, we can determine if a specific substance—whether it’s something you touch, inhale, or consume—is responsible for your allergic symptoms.

Common Skin Allergy Reactions

Eczema

Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is characterized by dry, sensitive skin that is often presented with red, itchy patches. Eczema can fluctuate, with flare-ups that may lead to cracking, oozing, and intense itching. Learn more about eczema here.  

Hives

Hives, or urticaria, are itchy, raised bumps that can appear reddish in color. When pressure is applied, they may turn white in the center. Hives can vary in size and may occur suddenly.

Contact Dermatitis

This term refers to an allergic reaction that occurs when an irritant or allergen comes into contact with the skin. Symptoms can include rashes, itching, blisters, and, in more severe cases, a burning sensation.

Understanding Allergy Patch Testing

What to Expect With Patch Allergy Testing

Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the patch allergy testing process, ensuring you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way. Your test will involve three appointments:

• Consultation and Application: Meet with our team to discuss your medical history and apply the allergens for testing.
• Removal of Patch Chambers and Initial Read: After the designated testing period, we will remove the patch chambers and conduct an initial assessment of your skin’s reaction.
• Final Reading and Results: This is a follow-up appointment to review the results and discuss any necessary next steps based on your reactions.

For accurate patch test results, you may be asked to stop taking medications that could interfere with the process temporarily. Be sure to disclose all medications, including non-prescription ones, to your doctor. Since some medications take time to leave your system fully, you may need to stop using them days or even weeks in advance.

How to Prepare for Patch Testing

Your active participation in the preparation process is crucial to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of your allergy patch test results. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Avoid Sun Exposure: Refrain from exposing your back or testing area to direct sunlight for at least a week before the test, as sunburn or tanning can interfere with results.
• Stop Topical Treatments: Avoid applying creams, ointments, or lotions to the testing area for at least 48 hours before your appointment unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Pause Certain Medications: Follow your doctor’s guidance about stopping medications, including antihistamines or other drugs that may affect the test results.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your back or the area where patches will be applied.
• Skip Vigorous Activities: Plan to avoid strenuous activities, swimming, or anything that could make you sweat excessively or wet the patches while they’re in place.

Your doctor will provide detailed instructions tailored to your situation, so it’s important to follow their guidance closely.

The Allergy Patch Testing Process

The allergy patch test is a straightforward procedure designed to identify the source of skin irritation or inflammation caused by allergic contact dermatitis. Unlike other types of allergy testing, which use needles to introduce allergens under the skin, patch testing involves applying small doses of common allergens to the skin via adhesive patches.

During the test, your doctor will place these patches on your skin, typically on your back, where they’ll remain for about 48 hours. It’s important to keep the patches dry during this period, so you’ll need to adjust your routine to avoid activities like swimming or intense exercise. The test identifies delayed allergic reactions, so results are not immediate and require a follow-up appointment for evaluation.

Potential Side Effects of Allergy Patch Testing

The side effects of allergy patch testing can vary from person to person. For individuals who do not have allergies to the substances being tested, the most common reactions are mild redness or irritation at the testing site. These symptoms are generally temporary and resolve quickly after the patches are removed.

In some cases, individuals may experience more pronounced reactions, such as localized swelling, itching, or a rash at the application site. These reactions are usually indicative of a sensitivity to one or more of the allergens tested. It’s important to communicate any unusual or severe reactions to your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on how to manage these symptoms effectively. 

Additionally, it’s important to note that patch testing results may be negative, meaning that no allergic reactions are detected. This can be helpful in ruling out specific allergens that are the cause of your symptoms.

Overall, allergy patch testing is a safe and valuable tool for identifying allergens, and most side effects are mild and short-lived.

Dealing with Skin Allergies

American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) and CAMP

The American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) is committed to advancing the diagnosis and treatment of dermatitis, which includes conditions characterized by itchy, dry skin or rashes on swollen, reddened skin.

One of the key resources offered by the ACDS is the Contact Allergy Management Program (CAMP). This database is designed to assist patients with skin allergies, also known as allergic contact dermatitis, in finding personal care products that do not contain the allergens triggering their reactions. Each generated list is tailored to the individual patient, providing a valuable starting point for identifying suitable products to help alleviate allergic symptoms.

Additionally, the CAMP database is accessible through a user-friendly app available on iTunes and Google Play. At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Surgery, our providers will help you understand your patch test results and how to use the app effectively to manage your skin allergies.

The American Contact Dermatitis Society® also has more information about Contact Dermatitis.

https://www.contactderm.org/patient-support/contact-dermatitis-faq

Does My Insurance cover Allergy Testing?

Yes, most major insurance providers, including Medicare, typically cover allergy testing. However, we recommend checking with your specific insurance company to verify your coverage details.

How to Address Your Allergic Skin Reactions

If you’re dealing with rashes or suspect you have skin allergies, we invite you to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced providers at any of our locations. Please note that Dr. Danielle Wolff conducts patch testing at our South Hill location.