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Allergy Patch Testing

Allergy Patch Testing Clinic Q&A

Allergy patch testing is a safe, effective way to diagnose contact allergies, which can cause skin irritations, rashes, or eczema. By identifying specific allergens, we can implement personalized treatment and preventive strategies, improving skin health and managing contact dermatitis symptoms effectively. By identifying specific allergens responsible for skin reactions, Dr. Oral Alpan, MD, at Amerimmune Clinic empowers patients with targeted strategies to avoid these triggers. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD.

Allergy Patch Testing Clinic Near Me in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD
Allergy Patch Testing Clinic Near Me in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD

Allergy patch testing is a safe, effective way to diagnose contact allergies, which can cause skin irritations, rashes, or eczema. By identifying specific allergens, we can implement personalized treatment and preventive strategies, improving skin health and managing contact dermatitis symptoms effectively. By identifying specific allergens responsible for skin reactions, Dr. Oral Alpan, MD, at Amerimmune Clinic empowers patients with targeted strategies to avoid these triggers. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD.
Allergy patch testing is a safe, effective way to diagnose contact allergies, which can cause skin irritations, rashes, or eczema. By identifying specific allergens, we can implement personalized treatment and preventive strategies, improving skin health and managing contact dermatitis symptoms effectively. By identifying specific allergens responsible for skin reactions, Dr. Oral Alpan, MD, at Amerimmune Clinic empowers patients with targeted strategies to avoid these triggers. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD.

Table of Contents:

What is allergy patch testing, and how does it work?
What types of allergens are typically tested during a patch test?
How long does an allergy patch test take, and how long will I need to wear the patches?
How do I prepare for an allergy patch test, and are there any restrictions beforehand?

What is allergy patch testing, and how does it work?


Allergy patch testing is an essential procedure used to identify specific substances that cause allergic skin reactions, such as contact dermatitis. This testing is crucial for detecting sensitivities to allergens like fragrances, preservatives, metals, and topical medications. By pinpointing these triggers, the test offers a targeted approach tailored to each patient’s unique sensitivities, ensuring a precise diagnosis for effective treatment.

Our Procedure: Personalized Consultation and Preparation
The allergy patch testing process begins with a thorough consultation. Our healthcare professionals take a detailed patient history, considering factors such as lifestyle, occupational exposures, and known allergies. This information helps guide the selection of allergens for testing. The procedure is personalized to meet the individual’s needs, ensuring the most relevant allergens are included.

Patch Test Application and Monitoring
Once the allergens are selected, small patches containing the allergens are applied to the skin, typically on the back. The patches are left in place for 48 hours, and the patient is asked to return for follow-up visits to monitor skin reactions. This helps us assess the severity of the allergic response and make accurate conclusions about the allergens causing the reactions.

Post-Test Results and Treatment Plan
After the test is completed, the results are carefully evaluated. Based on the findings, a personalized treatment plan is developed to manage and avoid exposure to identified allergens, helping patients achieve long-term relief from allergic reactions.

What types of allergens are typically tested during a patch test?


Patch testing is designed to uncover delayed hypersensitivity reactions by applying small amounts of allergens to the skin and monitoring the responses over 48-72 hours. This method helps us identify specific triggers that lead to skin reactions, such as contact dermatitis, hives, or eczema, which are common concerns among our patients.

Common Allergens Tested at Amerimmune Clinic

At Amerimmune Clinic, our patch testing panels include a range of common allergens to precisely identify potential triggers:

Metals: We test for metals like nickel, cobalt, chromium, and gold, which are commonly found in personal items such as jewelry and can frequently cause allergic reactions.

Rubber and Latex: Our testing includes rubber-related allergens like thiurams and carbamates, found in everyday products such as gloves and elastic bands, which are known irritants for some individuals.

Preservatives: We evaluate preservatives like formaldehyde, parabens, and methylisothiazolinone, often present in cosmetics and household products, to identify potential allergens.

Textiles and Dyes: We test for dyes and chemicals such as para-phenylenediamine and resins used in clothing and cosmetics, which may contribute to allergic contact dermatitis.

Topical Medications and Personal Care Products: Ingredients such as neomycin sulfate, bacitracin, and lanolin are included in our testing, as they can cause reactions in some patients.

How long does an allergy patch test take, and how long will I need to wear the patches?


The allergy patch test procedure at Amerimmune Clinic begins with an initial appointment, where our experienced healthcare professionals apply small patches containing potential allergens to your skin, typically on the back or arm. These patches are secured with hypoallergenic tape and remain in place for 48 to 72 hours to monitor skin reactions. During this period, we advise patients to keep the area dry and avoid activities that might dislodge the patches or cause excessive sweating.

Once the testing period concludes, patients return to Amerimmune Clinic, where we carefully remove the patches and examine the skin for any immediate reactions such as redness, swelling, or blistering. However, our commitment to accurate diagnosis extends beyond this initial assessment. We schedule a follow-up appointment two to three days after patch removal to check for any delayed skin reactions, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation.

The entire allergy patch testing process typically spans five to seven days, encompassing both the wearing time of the patches and necessary follow-up assessments. This thorough approach allows us to accurately identify allergens and develop effective management plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

How do I prepare for an allergy patch test, and are there any restrictions beforehand?


At Amerimmune Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for allergy management. Proper preparation for an allergy patch test is crucial to obtaining accurate results. To assist you in the process, we’ve put together this guide, which includes important steps and precautions to follow before the test.

Precautions Prior to Testing

Inform Your Healthcare Provider:
Before undergoing an allergy patch test, it’s important to disclose all medications you’re currently taking.
Certain substances, particularly those affecting the immune system or containing antihistamines, may interfere with the test results.

Avoid Certain Products:
For at least 2-3 days before your test, avoid using any topical creams, lotions, or corticosteroids on the area to be tested. These products may affect the skin’s reaction to the allergens and lead to inaccurate results. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions about which products to avoid.

Stay Out of Sun and Heat Exposure:
Excessive sun exposure, hot showers, or strenuous physical activities can cause irritation to your skin, potentially impacting the results. It’s advisable to avoid these activities for a few days prior to testing.

Patch Test Procedure at Amerimmune Clinic
Once you’ve followed these precautions, the patch test is performed by applying small amounts of potential allergens to your skin using adhesive patches. These patches remain in place for 48 hours, and your healthcare provider will assess the results based on skin reactions after the removal of the patches.

By following these preparation guidelines, you can ensure that the allergy patch test provides accurate, helpful results to guide your allergy management. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you. We serve patients from McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, Rockville MD, Vienna VA, IdylWood VA, Lincolnia VA, Groveton VA, Falls Church VA, North Bethesda MD, Takoma Park MD, Montgomery Village MD, Redland MD, Aspen Hill MD, and surrounding areas.

Locations of Amerimmune Clinic

Rockville, MD

  • 121 Congressional Lane, Suite 320, Rockville, MD 20852
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Arlington, VA

  • 1600 Wilson Blvd, Suite A #320, Arlington, VA 22209
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McLean, VA

  • 8260 Greensboro Drive Suite A-15 McLean, VA 22102
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Bethesda, MD

  • 4827 Rugby Avenue Suite A 201 Bethesda, MD 20814
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Alexandria, VA

  • 3541 W Braddock Road Suite 130 Alexandria, VA 22304
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Gaithersburg, MD

  • 910 Clopper Road, Suite 220 South Entrance Gaithersburg, MD 20878
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