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Contact dermatitis is the rash that appears when the skin comes into contact with something it finds irritating. Though the rash can appear right away, it usually takes a couple of days to develop and can last for several weeks to months. People can sometimes develop contact dermatitis from something they have used for years. The Contact Dermatitis Clinic at Tufts Medical Center is dedicated to helping patients identify and manage their contact dermatitis. The best way to do this is through a process called patch testing.
Patch testing is a non-invasive form of allergy testing, different from the prick testing that is performed for food and environmental allergies. Instead, patch testing evaluates for allergies to things like fragrances, dyes, preservatives, rubber, metals, topical medications, sunscreens, certain plants and more. Please note: patch testing can be done in children but is typically avoided in pregnant or nursing women. During patch testing, multiple "patches" containing different potential allergens (usually 80 to 100+) are placed on the skin, marked and left on for 48 hours. Patch testing typically requires three office visits:
To make the patch testing process as smooth as possible, we ask that you follow the steps below prior to your visit:
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Title(s): Dermatologist-in-Chief, Department of Dermatology, Tufts Medical Center; Chair and Harvey B. Ansell Professor of Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, Tufts University School of Medicine; Associate Professor, Tufts University School of Medicine Department(s): Dermatology Appt. Phone: 617-636-0156 Fax #: 617-636-9169
Skin cancer, atypical moles, acne, laser and cosmetic surgery
Title(s): Director, Contact Dermatitis Clinic; Dermatologist; Assistant Professor, TUSM Department(s): Dermatology Appt. Phone: 617-636-0156 Fax #: 617-636-8316
Contact Dermatitis, Patch testing
