Audit of primary and secondary care as a source of patch test clinic referrals

Referral for patch testing is important in managing patients with eczema/dermatitis. These referrals come from many different sources.

To assess the appropriateness of referrals from general practitioners (GPs) to a dedicated patch test clinic.

Referral sources were recorded for patch testing in a dedicated contact dermatitis unit for a 4-month period between November 2002 and February 2003.

Of 217 referrals reviewed, 45 (21%) were received from GPs. There was no significant difference in the percentages of positive patch test results and of relevant positive patch test results obtained from GP referrals compared with those received from other sources, including dermatology departmental referrals.

Referrals from GPs, if selected appropriately, can be seen directly in the patch test clinic without prior assessment in a general dermatology clinic.