Patch Testing Intake Guidelines

Medical History and Symptom Assessment

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends asking about the onset, duration, and pattern of skin symptoms to optimize diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes 1, 2
Documenting the specific anatomical distribution of dermatitis is crucial, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 2, 3
Inquiring about any relationship between symptoms and specific activities, environments, or exposures is essential, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1, 2
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests asking about previous treatments attempted and their effectiveness 4
Documenting any history of atopic conditions, such as eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis, is important, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology 4

Obtaining detailed occupational history, including specific job duties and materials handled, is crucial, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 3, 5
Asking about household cleaning products and chemicals is essential, according to the British Association of Dermatologists 2
Inquiring about hobbies and recreational activities that may involve allergen exposure is important, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 2, 5
Documenting any suspected food triggers, especially for perioral or hand dermatitis, is necessary, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1, 6

Asking about any suspected food triggers and the timing of reactions after consumption is essential, as recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1, 6
Documenting any systemic symptoms associated with food consumption, such as fever or headache, is important, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 7
Inquiring about resolution of symptoms during periods of food avoidance is necessary, as recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1, 6

Documenting all current medications, including topical treatments, is crucial, as recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 4, 8
Asking about any previous adverse reactions to medications, especially topical ones, is essential, according to the American Academy of Dermatology 4, 8
Documenting use of systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressants within the past 3 months is important, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 3

Documenting pregnancy status or if breastfeeding is necessary, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 3
Asking about ability to avoid bathing the test area and strenuous exercise during the testing period is essential, according to the British Association of Dermatologists 3
Inquiring about availability for multiple follow-up visits for patch test readings is important, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 2

Explaining the testing procedure, including potential for skin reactions and discomfort, is crucial, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 3
Discussing the need to keep the back dry and avoid exercise during testing is essential, according to the British Association of Dermatologists 3
Documenting informed consent after discussing potential adverse effects is necessary, as recommended by the British Association of Dermatologists 3