title: The utility of the TRUE test in a private practice setting.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Studies suggest that the Thin-Layer Rapid-Use Epicutaneous Test (TRUE Test) may be inadequate to completely diagnose a significant number of patients with allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To study the usefulness of the TRUE Test as a triage tool in a private practice setting.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective chart review of patients who were patch-tested with the TRUE Test between July 1, 2000, and June 30, 2004, in four private dermatology practices was conducted.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of the 183 patients evaluated, 50.8% had at least one positive reaction, 31.7% had a diagnosis of ACD, and 24.0% were suspected to have ACD from other allergens. Of the patients with positive reactions, 62.4% were determined to have reactions that were of present relevance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The TRUE Test allows patients with dermatitis to be triaged systematically in a private practice setting. It is important to supplement patch testing with the patients' personal products, especially in cases of facial or periorbital dermatitis, and to be aware of potential false negatives, particularly with fragrance and rubber additives.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Giuseppe
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Militello
authors.forename: Denise K
authors.initials: DK
authors.lastname: Woo
authors.forename: Jonathan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kantor
authors.forename: Christine L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Egan
authors.forename: Stephen A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Solotoff
authors.forename: Elizabeth M
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Spiers
authors.forename: Michael B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Stierstorfer
authors.forename: William D
authors.initials: WD
authors.lastname: James
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000485:Allergens; D002648:Child; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests
chemical_list: D000485:Allergens