Patch Testing in Washington, DC
Dr. Alison Ehrlich has been director of a referral patch testing clinic in the metro DC area for the past 17 years and has published and lectured extensively on contact dermatitis. Her publications on contact dermatitis include recommendations on specialized trays for vaginal, stoma, and shoe dermatitis. She is an active member of the American Contact Dermatitis Society and continually adapts her testing materials as allergens evolves.
A research study is now underway in Washington, DC to evaluate an investigational medication for those
who have failed to effectively respond to topical treatments for Eczema, also known as Atopic Dermatitis.
Qualified participants will receive study medication and related care at no cost.
For additional Study information please call 202-838-3016
Contact dermatitis can be due to contact with either allergens or irritants. Both types of contact dermatitis can cause the skin to become red and itchy. Many chemical substances can cause these skin reactions such as costume jewelry or fragrances in cosmetic products. The allergens responsible for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) can be tested for using specialized allergens and the procedure is called patch testing.
The allergens responsible for allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) can be tested for using specialized allergens and the procedure is called patch testing. Patch testing can be performed using a limited series of allergens or using a more extensive customized series of allergens.
First Visit: Allergens are placed on the back using specialized chambers which are affixed to the skin with tape.
Second Visit: The allergens are removed and the test sites are evaluated.
Third Visit: On the 3rd and final visit, the test sites are re-evaluated and the patient is educated about the results.
Dr. Ehrlich has the following series of allergens from Chemotechnique Diagnostics:
Cosmetic, Corticosteriod, Dental Screening, Fragrance, Hairdressing, Isocynates, Metal, NA 65 extended series, Plastic & glues, Shoe, Sunscreen, Textile colors & Finish.
Prior to Patch Testing:
Please avoid using moisturizer on your back for 24 hours prior to patch testing. Some of our patients are extremely sensitive to fragrances so please avoid use of perfumes during patch week. If you have significant hair at your patch sites (ie: back), please try to have these areas shaved 36 hours prior to testing. Patch testing can be messy so it is best to wear old clothes that are less likely to show stains (blue or black is preferred). If we are testing personal products, please try to leave them at the office the week prior to testing. Lastly, since we customize our testing, there can be waiting time associated with the visit so be prepared to spend 1-2 hours at the office for each patch testing visit.
Do not remove the patches!
Keep the patches dry. You may sponge bathe but do not get your back wet. Do not take a shower. If the patches become loose, please re-tape the patches. You can also lay on your back and allow pressure to re-adhere the patches
No physical activity-do not go to the gym.
The tape is removed on Wednesday.
Please bring an old t-shirt to wear home on Wednesday.
Do not shower. Please keep all patch sites dry and have someone re-draw any lines on your back. It is important that we see the lines to properly read the results.
You may be itchy by the Friday visit. Please let us know if you are extremely uncomfortable so we can coordinate a treatment plan to help improve your comfort as quickly as possible. You can take a shower after this visit.
