Patch testing--a recapitulation.

Although patch testing continues to be one of the most useful office tools of the inquiring dermatologist, the procedure is not used as often as patients deserve. This article reviews the use of the patch test and emphasizes its utility in the practice of dermatology. Although simple to perform, the test requires experience and keen objectivity for accurate interpretation. The rewards are great, however, as between 5% and 10% of dermatology practice consists of contact dermatitis. Failure to diagnose this percentage of patients accurately constitutes an important omission on our parts.