A patch test is a skin test that involves applying small amounts of different substances to the skin to check for a delayed allergic reaction. It’s often done on the back or arm and involves placing a patch with a small amount of the substance on the skin for 48-72 hours. The skin is then checked for any signs of irritation, redness, swelling or itching over the next 3-10 days. The test can help identify which substances a person may be allergic to and is often used in cases of contact dermatitis.
Contact dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation caused by contact with a substance that irritates the skin or triggers an allergic reaction. The skin may become red, itchy, and swollen, and may even develop blisters or dry, scaly patches. Contact dermatitis is a localized skin reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or an allergen. It usually affects the area of skin that was in contact with the offending substance and can cause burning, itching, redness, and swelling. Eczema, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can occur anywhere on the body and often runs in families. It may be triggered by a variety of factors, including allergens, stress, and hormonal changes. Eczema can cause dry, scaly, or leathery patches of skin that may be itchy and inflamed. While both conditions can cause similar symptoms, contact dermatitis is typically a more acute, localized reaction, whereas eczema is a chronic, more generalized condition.
Common irritants include soaps, detergents, solvents, and certain plants, while common allergens include nickel, latex, and fragrances.
Treatment may include avoiding the offending substance, using topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and itching, and in severe cases, phototherapy or systemic medications. Contact dermatitis and eczema are both skin conditions that can cause red, itchy, and inflamed skin, but they have different causes and patterns of occurrence.
If you would like to be tested for your contact allergies or believe you might be a good candidate for patch testing or other allergy testing or treatment, Dr. Wendt and her staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help.
Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now! Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!
Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm
Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.
