If there is any suspicion of allergy, the ostomate should test whatever material he seems to be allergic to on a part of the body remote from the stoma, say the chest or arm for example. One can do this by putting a small amount of tape or cement or suspected material in a patch in the area and observe for further effects. Should the skin break down here, it will not interfere with adherence of the appliance. Sometimes one can eliminate allergic response simply by switching to another brand. But again, this is best determined by trial, using the patch test as suggested.
Prevention also begins with a sufficiently protruding stoma for the ileostomate.
If skin breakdown is present, there are a number of substances which can be used to promote healing and an enlightened physician or ET can handle this problem. Two very good agents for handling this situation are Mycostatin Powder and Kenalog Spray. Neither of these agents has any greasy components to interfere with adherence of the appliance. Stomagram Medicare covers most ostomy supplies that are ordered by a physician and needed for the day to day care of a stoma. However, Medicare B reimbursement policies for ostomy supplies have changed.