Elgin area residents ask, “What is the purpose of the patch test for allergies?”

Posted By: | Published On: | Patch Testing
Elgin area residents ask, “What is the purpose of the patch test for allergies?”

A patch test is something that we perform in our office to help diagnose contact dermatitis, or an allergic inflammation of the skin. The test involves the use of trace amounts of different chemicals known to cause contact dermatitis placed on the patient’s back. The purpose of a patch test is to find out which chemical produces a reaction.

Patients who have contact dermatitis will have a reaction on the skin when they are in contact with a particular allergen. For many patients, this reaction can be painful, itchy, and may even crack or bleed. Some of the most common causes of contact dermatitis are ingredients found in: makeup, shampoos, cleaning supplies, jewelry, and other common household products.

How the patch test is performed

Patch testing requires multiple visits to our office. The patches with the most common chemicals known to produce reactions are placed on your back. They are to be kept in place for 48 hours. Upon return to our office, the patches are removed and we’ll evaluate the skin. You will then come back to our office for a third visit in 1-2 days for a final reading.

Preparing for the patch test

Two weeks prior to the test, patients should avoid tanning. If you are using any oral or topical steroids, you should consult with your doctor about stopping them before the test. If you have excessive back hair, you will need to shave it prior to coming in.

On the day of testing, you will want to make sure your back is free of any lotions or ointments. While the patches are on your back, you should take care to avoid activities that can cause you to sweat excessively. Patients will need to clean themselves with a sponge bath instead of showering.

If your patch test indicates an allergy, we will discuss the substances you are allergic to and talk over treatment options as well as how to avoid the allergen. If you are in the Elgin area and believe that you may be allergic to something, call us today to find out if patch testing is right for you.

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Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates

Meredith Cirrincione | Dr. Noga Askenazi

Amy Schack, a distinguished board-certified Physician Associate, brings a wealth of expertise to patient care. Specializing in allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma, and rashes, Amy is renowned for her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach. With a background in immediate care and orthopedics, she holds a Master's in Physician Assistant studies from Midwestern University and a Bachelor of Science from Northern Illinois University. A member of esteemed professional associations, including the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Amy Schack instills confidence, ensuring you can trust her unwavering dedication to your health and well-being.


Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.


Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.


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