Abstract
Corticosteroids have been used for decades. Their anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to be highly effective in a variety of autoimmune conditions as well as those with an increased inflammatory response. The undesirable effects of corticosteroids include the decrease in production of dermal infrastructure cells such as fibroblasts and mast cells, with increased development of structural proteins and complexes. This, in turn, leads to the development of a variety of skin maladies including striae, milia, telangiectasias, purpura, striae distensae, stellate tears of the skin, and atrophy. Its vasodilatory effects contribute to the development of rosacea, acne, folliculitis, and perioral dermatitis. It promotes bacterial and fungal (especially candididiasis) superinfection while introducing a foreign substance capable of inducing a hypersensitive response. Ultimately, the practictioner should be cognizant of these complications, especially in patients with long-term use, and should taper and supplement with adjunctive medications whenever possible.
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Feldman, E.J. (2015). Cutaneous Reactions to Corticosteroids. In: Hall, J., Hall, B. (eds) Cutaneous Drug Eruptions. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-6729-7_33
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-6729-7_33
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