Allergy Patch Testing can determine if your skin rash is caused by an allergic reaction to contact with a specific substance. In your initial consultation, your dermatologist will carefully examine your skin and discuss your history. Then an assessment will be made of which substances should be patch tested.
-After the initial consultation, the patch tests will be applied directly to your skin. Test chambers filled with various substances will be taped to your back for 2 days.
In order to get accurate and reliable results from patch testing, you must stick to the following appointment schedule. You need a minimum of 4 visits:
– 1st appointment – Tuesday
-Several pieces of tape will be applied to your back. They will be removed 2 days later, at your Thursday appointment.
-Do not get back wet until after Friday appointment
2nd appointment – Thursday
-Remove tape / First reading
3rd appointment – Friday
Second reading/ Photos taken
4th appointment – Tuesday
3rd reading
-Discuss results
-Provide lists of products to avoid and safe products to use
Contact allergy is a reaction caused by direct skin contact with a substance. The allergen that trigger symptoms are often simple chemicals, e.g. nickel metal in belt buckles. Other common causes of allergic contact dermatitis include ingredients in cosmetics, preservatives, fragrances. hair dyes and hygiene products. For more information on contact dermatitis, visit the American Contact Dermatitis Society.
The patch tests will be removed on your Thursday appointment, 2 days after application. Do not remove the tests before this visit. If you have extreme itching or discomfort, contact our office.
Negative results are common. This information is still useful, as you will not have to avoid the tested substances. A negative patch test result could mean that you skin condition is due to an irritant (not allergic) reaction. Your dermatologist will discuss how to better take care of your skin and avoid irritating substances.
Please contact your insurance company to see what your cost would be. This depends on your specific insurance plan and if you have a high deductible. Your cost can range from $0 to $800.
Below is the information you will need to give to your insurance company before coming for treatment:
Procedure: Allergy Testing
Procedure code (CPT): 95044
Number of units: 80