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		Patch Test What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis? Allergic contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory reaction that occurs when substances which you are allergic to come in contact with your skin. These substance could be an ingredient in your cosmetics or aftershave, jewelry, antibiotic ointment or cream, rubber boots, etc. What is T.R.U.E TEST (Allergen Patch Test)? T.R.U.E. test is a reliable allergen patch skin test designed to help your doctor determine whether or not you are allergic to any substances included on the test panel. The test panel contains 23 different substances or mixes, all of which are well-known causes of contact dermatitis, and a negative control. How Long Will I Wear T.R.U.E. TEST? Your doctor will ask you to return after the panels have been on your back for a minimum of 48 hours. Do not remove the panels unless directed to do so by your doctor. Are There Activities I Should Avoid While T.R.U.E. TEST is on My Back? Just a few: When bathing or showering, you must be careful not to get the test panel or surrounding area wet. If the test panel does become wet, it may loosen, allowing the test substances or marking ink to be washed away. For the same reason, any activity that may cause you to sweat or cause the test panel to loosen, such as sun bathing or exercising, should also be avoided. If for any reason an area of the test panel does become loose, you should immediately reattach it with a hypoallergenic adhesive tape. When Will My Results be Read? Since a reaction to any of the test substances will continue to develop even after the panels are removed, your doctor will determine how long you should wait before your next appointment. It is very important that you keep this appointment. What is the Doctor Looking For? At each of your next appointments, your doctor will carefully examine the test area for signs of an allergic reaction. This reaction usually consists os rash with swelling, redness, and tiny blisters. Redness alone, however does not necessarily mean that you have had an allergic reaction. What Should I Do if the Test Area Itches or Burns? Itching and burning sensations are common with patch testing. It itching and burning sensations become severe, you should contact your doctor. Try not to scratch the test area. If you do, the skin may become irritated and itch even more. Skin that has become red and irritated by scratching will make it difficult by your physician to interpret the result of the test. What is the Next Step if the Test Shows That I Am Allergic to One or More of the Substances? If you are allergic, your doctor will provide information on where in your everyday surroundings you are likely to come in contact with the substances to which you are allergic. Your doctor will also tell you how best to avoid these substances and possibly suggest alternatives to them. What Does a Negative Test Result Mean? T.R.U.E. TEST is designed to identify the most common allergens that cause allergic contact dermatitis. A negative test result will minimize the need to restrict your use of products that contains these allergens. Furthermore, a negative result provides valuable information that will help your doctor diagnose your condition and initiate treatment. Back to Dr. Nawal's treatments