title: Patch testing with the standard series when receiving immunosuppressive medications.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Debate surrounds the validity of patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis in patients taking immunosuppressants and the extent to which these medications suppress patch test reactions. Previous studies have demonstrated that corticosteroids can suppress immune reactions measured in patch testing. Because immunomodulators are increasingly used, their impact on patch testing also requires evaluation.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study aimed to report patch test results in patients taking specific immunosuppressants and to review relevant literature.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective review of patients patch tested with the standard series at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2011, was conducted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Positive patch test results occur during methotrexate therapy. How reactions would differ with no immunosuppression is unclear.
authors.affiliation: From the *Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Medical School; and †Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
authors.forename: Ashley B
authors.initials: AB
authors.lastname: Wentworth
authors.forename: Mark D P
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Davis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology; D008297:Male; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000276:immunology; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests; D012189:Retrospective Studies
chemical_list: D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D008727:Methotrexate