I. A History and review of methods, capabilities, and inherent limitations

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
This is the first of two articles on the patch test. This first article contains a history and review of the various techniques for both prophetic and repeat insult patch testing by the originator of the most widely used repeat insult patch test technique. This is followed by a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of various patch test modifications, such as the cumulative irritancy test and the maximization procedure. After precisely defining the patch test, the author explores a number of limitations that must be taken into account when interpreting results from the patch test, such as the identity of the test material, the panelists or test population, the sensitivity and specificity of the procedure, variations in application site, seasonal variations, use of controls, and statistical considerations.