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. 2014 Oct;5(4):436-40.
doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.142486.

Misuse of topical corticosteroids: A clinical study of adverse effects

Vivek Kumar Dey  1
Affiliations

Misuse of topical corticosteroids: A clinical study of adverse effects

Vivek Kumar Dey. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2014 Oct.

Abstract

Background: Misuse of topical corticosteroids is a widespread phenomenon among young people in India, especially women. The practice is associated with significant adverse effects and poor awareness of these effects among the general public.

Aim: This study was conducted to examine the misuse and adverse effects of topical corticosteroids among the people in Bastar region in Chhattisgarh state of India.

Materials and methods: Data collected from patients presenting with at least one of the adverse effects of topical corticosteroids as the chief complaint, from November 2010 to October 2011.

Results: Out of the 6723 new patients, 379 (5.63%) had presented with misuse and adverse effects of topical corticosteroids, of whom 78.89% were females. More than 65% of the patients were in the age group 10-29 years. The main reason for using the topical corticosteroids was to lighten skin colour and treat melasma and suntan. Acne (37.99%) and telangiectasia (18.99%) were the most common adverse effects noted.

Conclusions: Misuse of topical corticosteroids has a huge impact on dermatological practice, leading to a significant proportion of visits to the dermatologist. This hydra-headed problem needs multi-dimensional interventions, involving educational, legal and managerial approaches with cooperation from different sectors of society.

Keywords: Cutaneous atrophy; misuse; steroid acne; topical corticosteroid.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Steroid acne presenting as small, firm, monomorphic, follicular papules over the forehead
Figure 2
Figure 2
Steroid acne on the face characterized by pustules and erythema
Figure 3
Figure 3
Generalized facial erythema due to of telangiectasia, after inappropriate use of high-potency corticosteroids for long term
Figure 4
Figure 4
Steroid induced hypertrichosis: The patient had continued treatment with topical corticosteroids for 10 months
Figure 5
Figure 5
Hypopigmentation caused by long term use of topical corticosteroids
Figure 6
Figure 6
Tinea incognito: The patient had applied topical corticosteroids that masked a diagnosis of tinea
Figure 7
Figure 7
Cutaneous atrophy, a sign of topical corticosteroid abuse, over the left axillary region of a 23-year-old male
Figure 8
Figure 8
Perioral dermatitis in 23-year-old girl showing multiple small erythematous papules that are localised to the perioral skin and nasolabial folds
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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