Contact Dermatitis
Call for an AppointmentDuke dermatologists diagnose and treat contact dermatitis, a skin inflammation, irritation, or allergic reaction that occurs following exposure to a specific substance. The reaction can result from contact with everyday items like shampoo, clothing, cosmetics, jewelry, and gloves, or it can result from substances you're exposed to in your workplace. We use the latest techniques to identify the cause of your allergic reaction. Our goal is to determine the cause of your condition, relieve your symptoms, and help you prevent future outbreaks.
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
Tests for Contact Dermatitis
Physical Exam
The doctor checks your skin’s appearance and does a thorough evaluation of your potential exposure to irritants or allergens in your home, at work, or in other environments you visit frequently.
Skin Patch Testing
Identifies the source of allergic skin reaction, especially if you experience repeated and long-lasting occurrences of contact dermatitis. Small amounts of potential allergens are applied to adhesive patches, which are typically placed on your back. Your skin’s reaction to the substances is examined for possible allergies over several days. For your convenience, we usually perform patch testing during your first visit. The week-long patch test process typically involves three visits to our office.
Why Choose Duke
Advanced Expertise in Diagnosis and Management of Contact Dermatitis
Our dermatologists are among a small number in the U.S. with advanced experience in contact dermatitis and patch testing.
Wide Range of Allergen Testing
We use skin patch testing to identify the source of your allergic reaction and test for a wider range of substances than most medical centers. Our patch tests include cosmetic additives, fragrances, metals, and other unusual allergens. We tailor the patch test to fit your lifestyle by testing products you are regularly exposed to at home, at work, and in other environments you visit frequently. We perform standard comprehensive, pediatric, implant, and photo patch testing.
Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why we are once again recognized as the best hospital in North Carolina, and nationally ranked in 11 adult and 9 pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report for 2021–2022.