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allergEAZE Art and Science
Like other bioassays, patch testing is sensitive to both clinical science and the art of application. The allergEAZE System aims to minimize patch testing inconsistencies through allergen standardization and innovative product design. With support materials, ancillary products and educational resources, allergEAZE fosters patch test efficiency and improved skills.
The Science of allergEAZE
The creative science behind allergEAZE blends innovative syringe and patch designs with the quality and consistency of standardized allergen preparations.
- Squeezable high density polypropylene (HDPE) syringes permit allergens to be dispensed easily and quickly.
- Allergen preparations, raw materials and vehicles are validated for purity, efficacy, stability and consistency.
- Patch test chambers are easily filled, prepared and protected prior to patient application.
The Art of Patch Testing with allergEAZE
The allergEAZE System weaves artistry into patch testing practices with colour coded identifiers, educational materials and support products.
- Allergens are keyed by alphanumeric identifiers, primary series colour, and - if applicable - by secondary and tertiary series colours. View a colour key.
- To help identify exposure sites, allergEAZE reading plates include images of graded skin reactions for reference.
- For added guidance, the allergEAZE system includes clinical data collection and patient history forms.
More about patch testing
The allergEAZE System provides physicians with additional educational resources in support of their patch testing needs.
Patch test procedures - a quick summary
- Take complete and accurate patient histories and perform a physical exam. View a history form (Acrobat PDF viewer required).
- Schedule patient for patch testing and consider the impact of any immunosuppressive medications.
- Provide patient with pre-test instructions, and describe the patch testing process, including the goals and limitations.
- Apply patch test chambers and allergens to the patient's back. Patches must remain dry and in place for 48 hours.
- Remove patches at 48 hours and interpret skin reactions. Schedule subsequent assessments at additional times, such as 72 and 96 hours. View a blank data form (Acrobat PDF viewer required).
- Counsel patient about positive and negative results, and how to avoid the allergen(s). Schedule additional testing as needed. View a more detailed guide (Acrobat PDF viewer required).
Diagnostic patch test reaction charts
- Positive reactions are graded weak (+), strong (++), or extreme (+++). These reactions indicate sensitization, but are not absolute proof. Their predictive value is strengthened by patient symptoms and clinical history, but can vary by allergen and test conditions. View a diagnostic positive reaction chart (Acrobat PDF viewer required).
- Negative reactions (-) are common, and are defined as no reaction to an allergen, and no history or symptoms suggesting that contact allergy. Remember to counsel patients that negative reactions can still help diagnose their contact allergy or skin condition. View a diagnostic negative reaction chart (Acrobat PDF viewer required).
- Doubtful reactions () are often faintly macular, with homogenous erythema and no infiltration. If there is no supporting symptoms or history, reactions are likely negative, but retesting may be needed. Irritant reactions are usually charaterized by pustules and patchy erythema, with no infiltration. View information about doubtful and irritant reactions (Acrobat PDF viewer required).