Pediatric Patch Testing FAQ FAQ
Patch testing can help determine whether your child has a contact allergy to certain chemicals or materials that come into contact with their skin. Here is the key information to know before scheduling.
What is patch testing?
Patch testing looks for allergies to chemicals or materials that come into contact with your child’s skin. It can also evaluate allergies to chemicals associated with implanted medical devices or materials, such as diabetic devices, orthopedic implants, or cardiac materials.
Patch testing does not test for environmental allergies, such as cats, dogs, trees, or grass, and does not test for food allergies.
Who will perform my child’s patch testing?
Dr. Amber Atwater is dermatologist physician who will perform your child’s patch testing.
How many appointments are needed?
For children age 6 and under, testing takes place over 3 days with either a Monday, Wednesday, Friday or Wednesday, Friday, Monday (or Tuesday) schedule.
For children over age 6, testing usually takes place over 4 days with either a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Monday or Wednesday, Friday, Sunday, Tuesday schedule. With the Wednesday, Friday, Sunday, Tuesday schedule, someone at home will need to remove the patches on Sunday.
What does my child need to do during testing?
Your child’s back must remain completely dry throughout the entire testing period. Your child should avoid sports, physical education, heavy sweating, and activities that could stretch or loosen the tape on their back. Please consider your child’s school, sports, and activity schedule when choosing a time for testing.
How can I help my child during appointments?
Please bring something your child enjoys to help keep them comfortable and occupied, such as a phone or iPad with a favorite video, a book, a favorite toy, or another quiet activity.
Do I need to bring my child’s personal care products?
Yes. Please bring your child’s personal care products to both the first and last visits. These products may help us identify potential sources of contact allergies. We will provide more information about which products to bring when you call to schedule.
How do I schedule patch testing?
Please call our office at 703-570-1192 to schedule your child’s patch-testing appointments. Because testing requires multiple appointments over several days, it cannot be scheduled through our online appointment system or Zocdoc. Our scheduling team will help you find dates that work for your family and provide additional information about what to expect.
Our goal is to make patch testing as comfortable and straightforward as possible for your child and your family.