Apr

27

What Is A Patch Test?

Filed Under Patch Test 

Allergy Patch Test

contactPatch Testing is used to diagnose mainly contact allergies which cause dermatitis, rashes and other outbreaks on the skin. The test exposes the body to allergens like skin prick testing, though no prick or puncture is made on the skin instead allergens are merely held against the body. The test can be done for a variety of natural, metal and chemical allergens.

How is The Patch Test Done?

The patch test will test for several allergens at one time as each test will contain a separate chamber including one area that will not contain any allergen to act as a control. The patch test is commonly done on the back and the area should be free of any skin inflammations. Each allergen is held against the body for a 1-3 day period. Having the patch test may involve going back to the doctor several times during the 2-3 day period that the patch is worn to check on the progression of any outbreak. Going back to the doctor while wearing the patch will help your doctor give you a more accurate final test result.

Preparing For The Patch Test and Results

The patch test relies heavily on the skill of the doctor who is responsible for interpreting the results. Test results can be a challenge due to false positives that can occur. If the patient has a strong allergic reaction it is possible that the resulting reaction will be so large that it spills over to other areas of the skin that are being tested for a completely different allergen.

It is important to stop any use of topical creams on the area of the body that the patch test will occur in advance of testing. It also recommend to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight should also be avoided while wearing the patch.

If the test results are positive for a particular allergen your doctor will also be able to tell the severity of your reaction and should be able to provide you with possible sources of contact and how to avoid them. Solutions could include buying alternative products, or creating a barrier between your skin and the contact with clothing or creams. For more information about allergy testing read RAST test.

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