Dermatology

What are skin tests?

Skin tests can help isolate a specific substance that may be causing a reaction in the skin, or help to diagnose specific diseases.

What are the most common skin tests?

patch testing
Patch tests are often used to help diagnose allergies. Certain known irritating substances are applied to the skin with adhesive patches and left there for a period of time. The skin is then examined for any reaction after the patches are removed.
skin biopsy
A skin biopsy is the removal of some diseased skin for laboratory analysis. The sample of skin may be removed with a scalpel or curette, after a local anesthetic is administered. Skin biopsies are often performed to diagnose skin cancer or other skin disorders.
culture
Drainage from lesions or portions of skin, hair, or nails may be cultured in the laboratory to detect organisms that may be causing an infection.

This page was last updated on: May 24, 2006.

For patient inquiries, call 1-800-492-5538 or click here to make an appointment.

Email this Page

Print this Page

© 2008 University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). All rights reserved. UMMC is a member of the University of Maryland Medical System, 22 S. Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. 1.800.492.5538 TDD: 1.800.735.2258
Physician Referral: 1.800.373.4111