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Patch Test

Related terms · Patch test · Contact allergy test

A patch test is an examination where various substances are applied to the back, and skin reactions are monitored over several days. It serves a different purpose than the skin prick test, which looks for immediate allergies.

Reviewed by Korean Medicine Doctor Choi Yeon-seung · Last updated 2026-08-25
01

What is a patch test?

It is a test that checks for delayed contact allergic reactions by applying small amounts of candidate substances to the skin. A patch test involves applying various substances to the back and reading the skin reactions over several days. Its purpose differs from the skin prick test, which looks for immediate allergies.

02

How is it different from similar conditions?

It is not a test that finds all causes of dermatitis at once; substances outside the test items or irritant dermatitis must be evaluated separately.

03

Why is this important in skin care?

In cases of recurrent contact dermatitis, it is interpreted along with exposure records.

04

What should be checked based on my symptoms?

Please follow the instructions of the medical institution performing the test regarding preparations, such as medication use and showering before and after the test.

Related conditions and medical guidance

Check guides where this term is used

Condition GuidanceContact dermatitisContact dermatitis is a type of dermatitis where the area that touched a substance becomes red, itchy, or stinging, or develops swelling, blisters, discharge, or cracking. Irritant contact dermatitis, caused by substances that directly damage the skin such as detergents or disinfectants, often causes stinging immediately after exposure. Allergic contact dermatitis, caused by metals, fragrances, cosmetics, etc., may appear as itching several hours to several days later. Identifying and avoiding the causative substance is the starting point of treatment.Condition GuidanceHand eczemaHand eczema is a type of dermatitis characterized by recurring dryness, redness, flaking, stinging, and deep cracks on the back of the hands, fingers, and palms. Exposure to water, detergents, disinfectants, gloves, occupational hazards, or a history of atopy may be contributing factors. It must be distinguished from pompholyx (characterized by deep, small blisters on the sides of the fingers), tinea manuum (characterized by fine flaking on one hand accompanied by athlete's foot), and contact dermatitis (occurring at the boundary where a specific substance touched the skin).Medical Evaluation GuideWhen your skin changes after using new cosmetics, shampoo, or detergentsRather than attributing the cause to a single new cosmetic product, please record the affected areas, the date you started using it, whether the product was rinsed off or left on the skin, and any substances you come into contact with through your occupation or hobbies. Sensitive areas such as the eye area and face can also be affected indirectly through substances on your hands or in the air.

Comparison of similar terms

Terms to know for easier distinction

Evidence and Update Information

The definitions and safety standards in the materials below were referenced.

  1. American Academy of Dermatology Patch Test GuideI have confirmed the role of patch tests and delayed contact allergies.
Summary and review information for this page

Reviewing Medical Staff

Choi Yeon-seung, Doctor of Korean MedicineChief Director · Editor of Korean Medicine Atlas · BRC Researcher

Page Summary

A patch test is an examination where various substances are applied to the back, and skin reactions are monitored over several days. It serves a different purpose than the skin prick test, which looks for immediate allergies.

What this page covers

What is explained
In the sentence "A patch test involves applying various substances to the back and reading the skin reactions over several days. Its purpose differs from the skin prick test, which looks for immediate allergies," what should be checked first?
What situations are covered
A patch test involves applying various substances to the back and reading the skin reactions over several days.
What distinctions are made
Difference from similar terms: It is not a test that finds all causes of dermatitis at once; substances outside the test items or irritant dermatitis must be evaluated separately.
How should this be understood
Its purpose differs from the skin prick test, which looks for immediate allergies.

Key Points

  • Meaning of patch test: It is a test that checks for delayed contact allergic reactions by applying small amounts of candidate substances to the skin.
  • Difference from similar terms: It is not a test that finds all causes of dermatitis at once; substances outside the test items or irritant dermatitis must be evaluated separately.
  • Reason for checking during medical evaluation: In cases of recurrent contact dermatitis, it is interpreted along with exposure records.

References cited on this page

Skin Terminology Glossary

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