By knowing what you are allergic to, you will have the knowledge of what to avoid.  This will improve your quality of life and reduce your reliance on costly medications.  By being patch tested, your condition can be treated and not just your symptom.

What is Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD)?

Allergic contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory reaction that occurs when substances to which you are allergic come in contact with your skin.  These substances could be an ingredient in your cosmetics or aftershave, jewelry, antibiotic ointment or cream, rubber boots, etc.

Who Should Be Patch Tested?

If you suffer from eczema that has not cleared up especially with continual use of steroids, you should be tested.  This often indicates an allergy to a medication or personal care product. 

If you have atopic eczema and it flares up often, you should be patch tested.  Flare ups are often caused by contact to an allergen.

If you work with latex gloves – dental, health care or industrial workers – and have itchy red hands, you should be tested.  Rubber gloves have chemicals that cause allergy.

What is T.R.U.E. Test (Allergen Patch Test)?

TRUE TEST is a reliable allergen patch skin test designed to help your doctor determine whether or not you are allergic to any of the substances included on the test panel.  The test panels contain 23 different substances or mixes-all of which are well-known causes of contact dermatitis, and a negative control.

What if I Am Allergic to A Test Substance?

If you are allergic, information on where in your everyday surroundings you are likely to come in contact with the substances to which you are allergic will be provided.  You will learn how best to avoid these substances and alternatives.

Common Sources of Allergens

• Toiletries - Cosmetics, perfumes, shampoos, permanent and semi-permanent hair dyes, soaps, creams, lotions, ointments, other skin care products.
• Medical items - Cough syrup, lozenges, topical anesthetics, antibiotic creams, topical fungicides, eye drops, ear drops, nose drops, paste bandages, other medicated creams and ointments, dermatological creams.
• Rubber products - Shoes, gloves, elastic, tires, handles, hoses
• Food products - Flavorings, candies, chewing gum.
• Metals - Metal-plated products, costume jewelry.
• Building/industrial supplies - Cement, industrial chemicals, glues, adhesives, sealants, paint, industrial anticorrosive agents.
• Miscellaneous - Fragrances, leather goods, pine oil cleaners, pesticides, veterinary products, furniture.

If you would like to learn more, visit www.truetest.com.