What is it?
A patch test is a diagnostic procedure used to identify allergic reactions or sensitivities to specific substances. If you have an allergic reaction to something - the environment, air, materials or substances - and it’s causing a rash or itchiness, we recommend coming in for a patch test. It’s important to note that patch testing differs from a skin-prick test, where we check for an immediate reaction. Skin allergies usually develop in hours or days, so a patch test checks for this specific type of delayed reaction.
What to expect
Once in our office, one of our expert dermatologists at Associated Dermatologists will provide you with an overview of the procedure. From there, small amounts of allergens — that “thing or things” causing your reaction — will be placed on your skin, and we’ll cover each with a patch. These patches will remain on your skin for 48 hours after application. These patches may cause itching and discomfort, but removing them (or wetting or loosening them) will yield inaccurate results. Once 48 hours have passed, we’ll have you return to our office, and we’ll remove and evaluate the skin under the patches. This follow-up visit allows us to pinpoint the cause of the reaction. From there, we create a treatment plan, which may include oral or topical medication(s), an antihistamine, a decongestant, eye drops or nasal corticosteroids.
We may ask that you return to our office for a follow-up appointment to ensure we've identified and rectified your allergic reaction. If you are experiencing what you believe are allergic skin reactions, Associated Dermatologists is here to help you through the entire process. Schedule your appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists in Berkley, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, Commerce, and Novi, Michigan to treat your allergic reactions effectively.
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