Why is this procedure done?
There are many kinds of allergy tests. This one checks to see if you have an allergy when something touches your skin. ‚
What will the results be?
Your skin will become red or swollen at the site of contact after an allergen patch is placed. This means you are sensitive to what you were touching. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Do not have your back exposed under the sun 4 weeks before the test.
- Let your doctor know about the substances that may be causing your signs on the skin. These may come from your work or home. Your doctor may ask you to bring samples of these substances.
- Tell your doctor about all the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Let your doctor know if you have been ill.
What happens during the procedure?
The doctor will put a patch of paper with many different allergens on your skin. A special kind of glue holds it in place. The paper will stay on your skin for 48 hours. The test is not painful but may cause you some irritation. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
The doctor takes the patch off after 48 hours. Your doctor will look at your skin and decide which substances may have caused an allergic response. This is called your first reading. Forty-eight (48) hours after the patch is removed, the doctor does a final reading. You should not take a bath or wash your back until the doctor does the final reading. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Stay away from the things that cause your allergy.
- Read the labels of products or drugs very carefully.
- Take your drugs as ordered by your doctor.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
It is important that the person who does your allergy test is a trained health expert. You want someone who can tell if you are having an allergic response right away. You also want someone who can treat a reaction. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Fever
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of face, lips, or mouth
- Rash all over the body
- Any questions or concerns
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Allergy_testing?open ‚
DermNet NZ ‚
http://dermnetnz.org/procedures/patch-tests.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚