A review on misuse of topical corticosteroids

Abstract

Steroidal hormones are secreted by the adrenal cortex which is located at the upper region of both kidneys and are majorly of two types, that is, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Topical corticosteroids (TCs) are mostly indicated for psoriasis, limited areas of vitiligo, eczema, atopic dermatitis, lichen planulus, lichen simplex chronicus, discoid lupus erythematosus, phimosis, and acute radiation dermatitis. The misuse of TCs is mostly due to its cosmetic utilization and is increasing day by day by both physicians and patients due to its availability as over the counter drugs. Misuse can be decrease through patient counseling and by creating awareness about TCs and its effects which include side effects such as atrophy, telangiectases, purpura, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, acneiform eruptions, rosacea like perioral and periorbital dermatitis, and hypertrichosis.