Preparation / Typical Procedure
Before testing, to obtain the best results, patients should:
- Not use a topical steroid (eg, cortisone) cream on the back
- Not take oral steroids
- Discontinue any ultraviolet light (UVA or PUVA) treatment
- Not have a current rash on the back
The doctor performing the procedure will recommend the allergens that a patient's skin will be tested for, which is usually a standard selection of common allergens that cause the majority of allergic skin reactions as well as any specific allergen that the patient's skin may have come into contact with. Once the allergen selection is prepared using small plastic or aluminum discs, these are placed on the patient's upper back in an area of skin unaffected by any current rash. Adhesive tape is used to secure the discs.
During the time that the allergen patches are in direct contact with the skin, the patient should avoid vigorous activity or washing the area until the final reading is done 96 hours later. Sun exposure should be avoided during this period of time. The skin test is examined 48 and 96 hours later, at which time the adhesive tape and discs are removed to assess for any response.
Expected Results
