Comparing patch testing on the legs and back for allergic contact dermatitis

Legs vs Back: Patient Experience and Quality of Patch Testing for Allergic Contact Dermatitis on Different Body Sites

NA · HealthPartners Institute · NCT06191627

This study is testing whether putting allergy patches on the thighs instead of the back makes the experience more comfortable for people with allergic contact dermatitis.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 89 Years
SexAll
SponsorHealthPartners Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT06191627 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the patient experience and quality of patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis by comparing the traditional method of placing patches on the back with a newer approach of placing them on the thighs. Patients will be randomized to receive patches on either location, and their experiences will be assessed through surveys. The study aims to determine if testing on the thighs can improve comfort and practicality for patients while maintaining the integrity of the test results. Quality of testing will be evaluated by study coordinators prior to patch removal.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 or older who are undergoing comprehensive patch testing with at least 90 patches applied.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific conditions that limit testing on the thighs or back will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the comfort and practicality of patch testing for patients with allergic contact dermatitis.

How similar studies have performed: While traditional patch testing on the back is well-established, this approach of testing on the thighs is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 or older
* Undergoing patch testing at Park Nicollet Contact Dermatitis
* At least 90 patches applied at one time, representing comprehensive testing rather than limited testing with few patches that may skew results
* Both back and thighs adequate for patch testing (see exclusion criteria below)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient is 17 or younger
* Patient is pregnant or breastfeeding
* Specialized patch testing with low number of patches (less than 90)
* Rash that would preclude testing on thighs or back
* Large tattoos that would preclude testing on thighs or back
* Limited space on thighs or back due to body habitus
* Patient has specific needs necessitating use of the thighs or back (event, breastfeeding, etc.)

Where this trial is running

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.