Dermatology focuses on the health of the skin, hair, and nails. Learn about the diagnosis and treatment of acne, eczema, skin cancer, and cosmetic procedures.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective management for contact dermatitis. Because the symptoms often overlap with other skin disorders, a systematic approach is required. This involves a combination of detailed patient history, clinical examination, and specialized testing procedures. The goal is to identify the specific offending agent, whether it is a chemical, protein, or physical irritant, to enable precise avoidance strategies.
The initial step involves a thorough physical examination and interview. The distribution of the rash often provides the biggest clue to the cause.
When the cause is not obvious from history alone, objective testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Patch testing is a specialized procedure designed to provoke a controlled allergic reaction to confirm specific sensitivities.
When patch test results are equivocal, or to test a specific personal product, the ROAT or “use test” is employed.
While not always necessary, a skin biopsy can provide definitive answers in complex or resistant cases.
A key part of the diagnostic process is ruling out other conditions that mimic contact dermatitis.
Understanding exactly what to test is crucial for a relevant diagnosis.
At Liv Hospital, our diagnostic capabilities extend beyond standard examinations. We utilize comprehensive patch testing series that cover a wide range of international and local allergens. Our dermatologists are skilled in interpreting these complex results, distinguishing between true allergies and irritant reactions. We take the time to analyze your personal and occupational history meticulously, ensuring that the diagnosis is not just a label, but a roadmap to your recovery.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
No, patch testing is not painful. It does not involve needles. However, the back may feel itchy if you react to the allergens.
You must keep the back dry while the patches are on (usually 48 hours). After removal, you should still be gentle until the final reading.
Standard series typically include 30 to 80 common allergens, but additional specific series can be added based on your history.
A negative test usually points towards irritant contact dermatitis or a condition other than allergy, requiring a review of potential irritants.
Yes, certain medications like oral steroids and immunosuppressants can interfere with results and may need to be paused under doctor supervision.
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