Topical Corticosteroids Abuse: A Clinical Study of Cutaneous Adverse Effects

BACKGROUND: Topical corticosteroids (TC) are one of the most widely used agents in dermatology practice. Misuse of these agents may lead to a wide range of adverse effects. AIM: This study was conducted to assess the magnitude of abuse of topical corticosteroids (TC) and clinical patterns of cutaneous adverse effects amongst patients attending dermatology department of a teaching hospital at South Rajasthan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: All patients who reported with adverse effects of topical steroids during one year from September 2015 to August 2016 were evaluated. Patients fulfilling the study criteria were registered for further workup. RESULTS: Out of the 85280 new patients, 370 (0.43%) presented with adverse effects of TC. Males (232/370;62.70%) outnumbered females (138/370;37.30). Age group 11-30 years was most commonly (74.05%) affected. The main reason for using TC was fungal infection (52.43%). Tinea incognito (49.46%) and acne (30.27%) were the most common adverse effects recorded. CONCLUSIONS: Abuse of TC, particularly the superpotent and potent is rampant amongst general population. Topical corticosteroids are frequently used for indications where they should be avoided.