Contact dermatitis clinic
Contact dermatitis clinic
The OHSU Contact Dermatitis Clinic was established by
Dr. Frances Storrs to assist
patients who suffer from skin allergies. Although there a number of different types of allergic
reactions, this clinic is dedicated to Contact Allergies. A contact allergy usually presents as an
itchy rash which forms when you come in contact with a substance with which you are allergic. This
reaction typically comes up between one and seven days following contact with the substance and
usually lasts longer than a few days. Some culprits include ingredients in cosmetics or skin care
products, plants, medications, gloves, clothing, or jewelry. The rash usually presents at that site.
But because there is such a wide range of offenders, the condition often presents in a variety of
different locations and distributions.
In order to identify the offending agent, the OHSU Contact Clinic performs allergy patch
testing. This process involves testing the patient to a series of substances which are placed
on small aluminum disks and applied to the surface of the patient's back with a paper tape.
These patches stay on for a total of 48 hours, at which time the patches are removed and read.
Although the patches are removed at this time, many of the substances take five to seven days
to produce a response. For this reason the patient must return for a final visit the following
week, at which point the allergy culprits are identified and discussed.
Frequently asked Questions
Do I need a referral to come to this clinic?
Yes. Because patch testing is a very extensive process we do require that you see a
general dermatologist or primary care physician prior to making an appointment with us,
and that that physician feels that you have a contact allergy.
Who should I call to make an appointment?
For an appointment call David at 503-494-6442.
What should I bring to my appointment?
When you come for your first visit bring any products you may use on the areas of your
skin that you are broken out. Keep in mind that a contact allergy often takes a number
of days to react, so substances you contacted within the week prior to your reaction
are still suspect.
I have been using the same products for years, are these products still suspect?
Yes. An allergy is an acquired sensitivity. This means that the products that you have
been using for a very long time are just as suspect if not more suspect then products that
you just recently brought into your life.
Can I shower with the patches on?
No. Sadly you cannot get your back wet for the entire week the patch test process is
occurring. You can take a shallow bath or wash your hair in the sink, you just cannot get
the site of the patches wet. Similarly, you should avoid any activities which could result
in heavy sweating.
Are there any medications I should avoid taking while being patch tested?
Yes. In order to achieve reliable results you cannot have received any steroid injections
(Ex: Kenalog) within one month of your patches being placed. Additionally, you cannot take
any oral steroids (Ex: prednisone, cyclosporine) within one week of the patches being placed.
If you are unsure if a medication you are taking falls under one of these categories do not
hesitate to call and ask.
What happens if I have a positive reaction to a substance I was tested too?
The average positive reaction is about half the size of a dime, and is typically red and
somewhat itchy. People often compare it to having an obnoxiously placed mosquito bite.
When the patches are placed, instructions on how to remove a patch are given incase a stronger
reaction presents itself.