Mésusage des dermocorticoïdes: une image vaut mille mots

Dermocorticoids (DC) are the first line treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis. Despite their relative safety, long-term use and most of all self-medication practice could expose them to a risk of skin atrophy. We report the case of a 50-year old female patient, treated for psoriasis with chronic application of topical dermocorticoids over several years. Her skin appeared to be very thin, displaying the underlying venous network, telangiectasias as well as stretch marks which are manifestations of dermo-epidermal atrophy. Skin atrophy is the most common adverse effect of dermocorticoids and it is due to their strong antiproliferative effect on keratinocytes, melanocytes and fibroblasts which synthesize the collagen. It may be associated with delayed wound healing and various infectious complications; hence the importance of providing proper patient education.