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Review
. 2025 Mar-Apr;42(2):311-317.
doi: 10.1111/pde.15799. Epub 2024 Nov 4.

Pediatric Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome: What Is Known, What Is Unknown

Kripa Ahuja  1 , Peter Lio  2
Affiliations
Review

Pediatric Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome: What Is Known, What Is Unknown

Kripa Ahuja et al. Pediatr Dermatol. 2025 Mar-Apr.

Abstract

Topical steroid withdrawal syndrome (TSW) is a debated condition marked by burning erythema, severe itching, and dry skin following the discontinuation of topical corticosteroids (TCS). This study reviewed reported pediatric TSW cases. With a total of 21 cases reported (inconsistent data provided), 60% (6/10) used TCS on the face; 69% (9/13) were associated with an escalation in potency of TCS and 75% (3/4) were the erythematoedematous variant. Overall, data on TSW in children is lacking and standardized diagnostic criteria are needed.

Keywords: atopic dermatitis; pediatric dermatology; topical corticosteroids; topical steroid withdrawal syndrome.

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Conflict of interest statement

Dr. Lio reports research grants/funding from AbbVie, AOBiome; is on the speaker's bureau for AbbVie, Arcutis, Eli Lilly, Galderma, Hyphens Pharma, Incyte, La Roche‐Posay/L'Oreal, MyOR Diagnostics, ParentMD, Pfizer, Pierre‐Fabre Dermatologie, Regeneron/Sanofi Genzyme, Verrica; reports consulting/advisory boards for Alphyn, AbbVie, Almirall, Amyris, Arcutis, ASLAN, Boston Skin Science, Bristol‐Myers Squibb, Burt's Bees, Castle Biosciences, Codex Labs, Concerto Biosci, Dermavant, Eli Lilly, Galderma, Janssen, Johnson & Johnson, Kimberly‐Clark, LEO Pharma, Lipidor, L'Oreal, Merck, Micreos, MyOR Diagnostics, Regeneron/Sanofi Genzyme, Skinfix, Theraplex, UCB, Unilever, Verrica Yobee Care; stock options with Codex, Concerto Biosciences, and Yobee Care. In addition, Dr. Lio has a patent pending for a Theraplex product with royalties paid and is a Board member and Scientific Advisory Committee Member of the National Eczema Association. Kripa Ahuja has no conflicts of interest or relationships to disclose.

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