The Evolving Field of Contact Dermatitis [editorial]

Patch testing has been performed since the 1800s and remains the gold standard for diagnosing allergic contact dermatitis. Although this diagnostic tool essentially has remained the same over the centuries, the allergens to which patients are exposed on a daily basis at home and at work through environment or personal care products continue to change and evolve. New preservative systems, fragrance chemicals, and innovations in the workplace result in new potential allergens and exposures; therefore, the allergens that can cause dermatitis evolve over time.