Should you stop steroid eye drops before a skin patch test for contact dermatitis?

No, is the simple answer.

Avoid using test sites to which topical glucocorticoids, antihistamines, immunosuppressants, or immunomodulators are applied. The use of topical steroids or immunosuppressants at or near potential test sites should be avoided from at least one week prior to patch testing through the conclusion of patch testing.

Oral steroids may cause false-negative results of patch testing.

The effect of concomitant systemic antihistamine administration on the performance of patch testing is
unknown. The current recommendation from AAAAI is not stop oral antihistamines.

Topical steroids, antihistamines and other immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus) may be used on non-test areas, but should be avoided on potential patch test areas prior to and during testing.

Simple instructions: Preparing for the Test

- Your skin should be clear for 2 weeks before the test if possible.
- Avoid exposing your back to the sun for 1 week before the testing.
- Stop these medicines for 1 week before your appointment: topical steroids to the back

- Stop these medicines for 3-5 days before the test: Oral corticosteroids and Non-steroid anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)

- Do not apply any ointments, creams or lotions to the back 4 hours before the appointment.



Contact Dermatitis - An Approach to Treatment (click to enlarge the image).

References:

T.R.U.E. TEST Quick Reference Guide http://buff.ly/2mr7tZO
Allergy Patch Skin Testing http://buff.ly/2mtm7kM

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