patch test

American  

noun

1. Medicine/Medical. a test for suspected allergy by application to the skin of a patch impregnated with an allergen: allergic reaction is indicated by redness at the site of application.

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patch test British  

noun

1. med a test to detect an allergic reaction by applying small amounts of a suspected substance to the skin and then examining the area for signs of irritation

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Etymology

Origin of patch test

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Gemma had coronavirus and recovered but when she went for a patch test with the same hair dye she'd been using for years she suffered a reaction.

From BBC • Sep. 23, 2021

Gemma suffered a reaction to a patch test despite using the same hair dye for years.

From BBC • Sep. 22, 2021

To prevent adverse reactions, always patch test on the inside of the wearer’s wrist, Colwell-Lipson recommends.

From Forbes • Oct. 22, 2012