Handling of Allergens

If you order series of allergens you will receive them in plastic storage trays
and in proper sequence for application. It is recommended that allergens be stored in these trays and under refrigeration and minimize exposure to light. To reduce space requirements the trays can be stacked on top of each other.

Each allergen has a label identifying the product and other essential information including an expiry date. The expiry dates vary depending upon the chemical stability with petrolatum based allergens having longer expiry dates (up to 2 years and aqueous and alcohol based allergens shorter periods (up to 9 months). The petrolatum allergens are in syringes and the aqueous/alcohol allergens in bottles.

In order to ensure that you receive allergens with the longest expiry dates we order your allergens directly from Chemotechnique rather than carrying inventory at our facilities. This does require that you allow 4 weeks from the time of order placement for receipt of allergens. We do maintain an inventory of patch test chambers and accessories and ship those upon receipt of your order.

We pride ourselves on our high level of customer service and attention.

Preparation of Allergens

Preparation of allergens (putting allergen in each chamber) for patient application can be handled on the day of the patient's visit or prepared up to two weeks in advance (petrolatum based, aqueous on day of application) and refrigerated.

Complete information on use of the Application Plate for prefilling is found on our website, click on "Patch Testing" and "IQ-Ultra".

Applying the Patch Test Chamber Units to the Patient

The ideal application site is the upper back. Mid-back can also be used if necessary. The test chambers should be applied neatly, leaving a gap of approximately 5cm between units and either side of the spine. They should not be applied directly under brassiere straps. A record indicating the order of placement of each allergen must be kept.

Patient Instructions

Proper explanation to the patient of the patch test procedure will ensure greater
patient compliance. Providing a patient with a Handout (sample below) can be helpful.

You are being patch tested to determine if your eczema is caused by an allergic reaction to any specific substances. This will involve several visits to the clinic.
On your first visit an examination and evaluation of potential causes will be undertaken so we can identify potential suspect substances.
On your next visit you will have strips of chambers filled with the suspect antigens placed on your back. This may occasionally feel uncomfortable, and you may develop itching under one or more of the chambers. Try to avoid scratching as itching is normally an indication of a positive reaction and scratching might alter the test results. If pain occurs call the clinic. It is recommended that you keep the area dry during this time period while avoiding heavy and physical exercises that could cause excessive perspiration and detachment of the test unit.. We also recommend that you wear loose clothing, and a t-shirt in bed as this helps to prevent the patches from peeling or loosening from the skin. (If you notice such a loosening have someone pressure the adhesive onto the skin. If necessary, you can also apply additional tape to the edges of the chamber units.) Abstain from taking cortisone containing medications, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
The chamber units will be removed in 48 hours with the first reading being done 20-30 minutes after removal. Your physician will advise you if additional readings are necessary over the next 5 to 7 days.
Upon completion of this procedure you will be provided with the results, advised of any allergies you may have and how to minimize possible reoccurrence.