Patch Testing for Skin Allergies

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Patch Testing for Skin Allergies
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What is Patch Testing?

• A Patch Test is a skin test used to find the
  cause of a possible allergic skin reaction. This
  type of reaction is called allergic contact
  dermatitis.
• The patch test is performed by the dermatology
  clinic. During the patch test, different
  substances are placed on the skin and secured
  with tape. The patches are usually placed on the
  back, left on for 2 days, and then removed. The
  dermatologist will evaluate the area of ??skin
  that was tested 2 to 4 days after the patches are
  removed.

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WHAT IS ALLERGIC CONTACT DERMATITIS?

• Common Symptoms include
• Burning
• Itching
• Redness
• Rash
• These symptoms can last up to four weeks and can
  usually be treated at home with medications and
  topical creams. The best protection against
  contact dermatitis is to identify the specific
  triggers that cause the reactions, so that
  patients can avoid these substances as often as
  possible. A patch test can help identify the
  trigger. It does not require the use of needles
  or injections.

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Patch Testing
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How do I prepare for Patch Testing?

• If you take cortisone pills or have injected
  cortisone in the last month, tell your health
  care provider. You can use any prescription skin
  cream as directed up to one week before your
  patch test. At that time, stop applying the
  prescription creams.
• You can continue to use moisturizers until the
  patch test strips are applied. Avoid exposure to
  the sun or ultraviolet light for four weeks
  before the patch test.
• On the day you are scheduled to have your patches
  applied, you may want to wear clothes that you
  don't mind getting stained. On rare occasions,
  the marker used to mark the area to be examined
  may stain clothing.

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During the Test

• You will visit us several times during patch
  testing. Patch tests will be done during the
  first visit. Patch tests include two or three
  rectangular panels with small amounts of
  allergens previously applied.
• Sometimes individual patch tests can be applied.
  The panels are placed on the skin, usually on the
  back.
• After two days the panels are removed and skin
  reactions measured. You will return a day or two
  after the panels are removed to measure skin
  reactions again.
•  
• Dr. Maryam Zamani in London, is here to help
  patients look and feel their best. Book an
  appointment.

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For More Details

• Visit at drmaryamzamani.com