Topical steroid creams are often prescribed by doctors treating eczema and other skin conditions as they can be very effective in reducing inflammation and calming redness of the skin. Problems can arise when these creams are not used according to the doctor's instructions. Too much steroid cream used over a large area of the body can cause serious and irreversible side effects. Most dermatologists recommend that topical steroids should only be used on the skin for 5–7 days and then stopped. Long term daily use of these creams is not advised.
Local Side Effects Caused By Topical Steroids
Steroid creams can cause thinning of the skin, particularly when used on areas such as the face where the skin is not as thick as other areas of the body. This in turn can cause permanent damage to the skin such as stretch marks (striae) and prominent blood vessels which can be seen under the skin (telangiectasia). The skin is also more suceptible to bruising and tearing.
The patient may have an allergy to either the steroid or one of the ingredients in the base cream or ointment used in the preparation. This can cause skin reactions similar to eczema or hives and intense itching.
Steroid creams suppress the immune system, making it more difficult for the white blood cells to recognise and fight foreign cells. This can make the skin more at risk of viral, fungal or bacterial infections such as tinea (ringworm), herpes simplex (coldsores) and molluscum contagiosum. Topical steroids should never be used on infected skin.
Systemic Side Effects Of Topical Steroids
Use of a potent steroid over a long period of time can cause suppression of the adrenal gland, which produces natural steroid hormones in the body. Even less potent creams such as hydrocortisone can cause adrenal suppression is used in quantities over 500 g per week. This can lead to serious conditions such as Cushing's syndrome, although this is very rare.
When young children use steroid creams, their growth needs to be monitored carefully, as the steroids can be absorbed into the body and slow down growth.
Other systemic side effects include raised blood pressure, diabetes and fluid retention. Skin can also become addicted to steroid creams and attempts to stop the steroid can cause rebound phenomenon.
There is no doubt that when used correctly, topical steroid creams are a useful tool in easing the symptoms of eczema and other skin conditions. Patients should be sure to pay attention to the advice given by their doctor or dermatologist concerning th use of such creams and read the enclosed instructions carefully before use.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice .
Sources
Net Doctor: Topical Corticosteroids
Dermnet NZ : Topical Steroids
Louise Jones - I have always enjoyed writing as a hobby, but started writing reviews online in February 2010 for Dooyoo, and later Ciao. In the beginning ...
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