Patch testing is a reliable and relatively quick way to pinpoint the substances that are triggering your troublesome allergic reactions. If you’re regularly bothered by localized rashes or skin that is uncomfortably itchy, red, bumpy, scaly, or swollen, you might have developed allergic contact dermatitis. For example, if you are sensitive to latex and you are treated by a dentist who is wearing latex gloves, you might develop symptoms at the point of contact.
If you believe you might have contact dermatitis, Dr. Frank Averill of St. Francis Sleep, Allergy & Lung Institute can help you find out what is irritating your skin. At his state-of-the-art clinic, which is convenient to patients from Clearwater, New Port Richey, Palm Harbor, Trinity, Oldsmar, Safety Harbor, and other nearby Florida cities, Dr. Averill can administer patch testing to identify the underlying culprit so that you can avoid it and free yourself from the frustrating symptoms.
Patch testing is generally performed to determine whether a particular substance causes a skin irritation. It does not involve the use of needles. Instead, after reviewing a patient’s detailed history and identifying suspected allergens, an adhesive patch is prepared with extracts of potential skin irritants, such as:
- Latex
- Fragrances
- Preservatives
- Medications
- Hair dyes
- Metals
- Resins
- And other common allergens
The patch is then applied to an area of skin on the arm or back that has been scratched or pricked to facilitate exposure. The patch must be worn for approximately 24 to 72 hours in order to adequately test for possible delayed hypersensitivity. During patch testing, bathing, swimming, and activities that cause heavy sweating should be avoided. At a pre-specified time, the doctor will remove the patch and evaluate the skin underneath. An irritation at the patch testing site is usually an indication of an allergy.
Contact St. Francis today to learn more about allergy and asthma symptoms and contact dermatitis, or to schedule an appointment for patch testing. We regularly see patients from Clearwater, New Port Richey, Palm Harbor, St. Petersburg, Largo, Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, and the surrounding FL areas.