Diagnosis of Eczema (contact dermatitis)

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Your GP will normally refer you to a skin specialist (dermatologist) for patch testing to find out what is causing your allergic contact dermatitis. The test patches are left in place for two days then removed and any reaction is noted. A further examination is carried out after a further two days to detect any further reactions.

Your GP may refer you to a dermatologist for a full assessment and investigation as to the cause of irritant dermatitis, although this is sometimes clear. If the reaction is due to substances you are working with, they can be avoided as far as possible.