Patch tests

Patch testing makes it possible to detect allergies to:

Household allergens;

Components of cosmetics;

Dyes;

Preservatives;

Detergents, cleaners and disinfectants;

Local and systemic medications;

Plants;

Metals (including those used in dentistry and orthopedics).

Advantages of patch testing

Painlessness and safety for the patient’s health (tests are standardized and certified).

High diagnostic accuracy and speed of test installation and evaluation of results;

Several allergens can be used simultaneously.

Convenient testing procedure.

Patch testing is considered the most effective method for detecting allergic contact dermatitis.

Evaluation of results according to a system approved by the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group, the North American Contact Dermatitis Group, and others.

How is the procedure performed?

After a detailed study of the symptoms of the disease, the doctor selects irritants that can cause an allergic reaction in the patient. Probable allergens are applied to a special diagnostic patch, which is attached to the inside of the arm or on the upper back (if hair grows in the testing area, it will need to be shaved).

About 20-30 allergens that can cause contact dermatitis can be tested during one procedure. The standard set of allergens for testing includes: latex, medicines and antibacterial ointments, fragrances, preservatives, hair dyes, metals and resins, jewelry containing nickel and cobalt, perfumes, detergents, personal hygiene products, rubber and leather clothing, chemicals, plant sap.

After the doctor installs the patch application, 48 hours must pass. During this time, haptens are transformed into allergens and the body’s reaction to them will become clear. Important point: when the patch test is on the body, it is forbidden to wet it with water for 48 hours. In addition, the patient is prohibited from physical exertion that can cause heavy sweating and sunbathing for 7 days.

The patch system is removed during a repeat visit to the doctor (after 2 days), and the place of its attachment is marked with a colored marker. This mark should remain until the next appointment with the doctor, which will take place four days after the first visit (if the inscriptions begin to fade, ask your relatives to restore them). The test results are evaluated in three stages: on the second, fourth and seventh days. A strong reaction to the allergen manifests itself in the form of papulovesicles, ulcers and swelling. An average reaction to – in the form of a rash, follicular pustules and burns. Weak but positive reactions to the allergen are redness of the skin. In some cases, the results are considered false: for example, when instead of one or more positive reactions, all areas where allergens are attached begin to redden and itch. As a rule, such reactions occur in patients with severe dermatitis.

What are the possible side effects?

High sensitivity to the components of the patch.

Exacerbation of existing dermatitis.

Feeling of pressure from the diagnostic patch on the skin, which disappears 30 minutes after its removal.

Other side effects are possible, which should be reported to the doctor immediately. It is not advisable to remove the patch test yourself, without consulting a doctor.

How to prepare for the procedure?

7-10 days before the patch test, you should stop taking antihistamines and hormonal drugs that can affect the results.

If you have been vaccinated, at least 3 weeks should pass since the procedure.

A week before the test, it is advisable to take a short shower and refrain from prolonged bathing in the bathtub and swimming in the pool.

On the day of the procedure, it is forbidden to use cosmetic skin creams in the patch test area.

It is advisable to come to the testing procedure in dark clothes, as the marker can spoil things, leaving traces on them.

Taking medications that affect the state of the immune system must be agreed with the doctor before the test.

Are there any restrictions on the time of the patch test?

The areas of skin involved in the test must be protected from sunlight;

Taking medications that affect the state of the immune system must be agreed with the doctor before the test;

It is necessary to avoid visiting the pool, bathhouse, sauna;

Our doctors know how to help you overcome allergies even in the most difficult cases

Liliya Ivanovna Romanyuk

Allergist

Medical experience: 39 years.

Specialization: allergology, pulmonology.

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Gogunska Inna Volodymyrivna

Allergist

Medical experience: 36 years.

Specialization: allergology, otolaryngology.

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Serhii Viktorovych Zaikov

Pulmonologist, allergist

Medical experience: 38 years.

Specialization: pulmonology, allergology.

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Levchenko Anastasia Romanivna

Allergist, gastroenterologist, therapist

Medical experience: 11 years.

Specialization: allergology, gastroenterology, therapy, ultrasound diagnostics.

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Nataliya Volodymyrivna Nemyrovska

Allergist, pediatric allergist

Medical experience: 22 years.

Specialization: allergology, children’s allergology.

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