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Cushing syndrome caused by topical corticosteroid: a case report
Ramazan Gen1, Esen Akbay, Kerem Sezer
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Mersin University Medical Faculty, Mersin, Turkey.
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|May 15, 2007
Summary
Topical steroid therapy can rarely cause iatrogenic Cushing syndrome in adults. Discontinuing topical glucocorticoids helped a patient recover from adrenal suppression, highlighting the need for patient education on steroid side effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Iatrogenic Cushing syndrome is a rare condition.
- Topical steroid therapy is a common dermatological treatment.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old woman developed Cushing syndrome due to long-term topical clobetasol propionate use.
- Laboratory results indicated adrenal suppression.
Findings:
- Discontinuation of topical glucocorticoids led to the improvement of adrenal suppression.
- This case highlights a rare but serious side effect of potent topical steroids.
Implications:
- Patients using topical steroids require comprehensive counseling on dosage, duration, and potential systemic side effects.
- Awareness among healthcare providers is crucial for early diagnosis and management of iatrogenic Cushing syndrome.
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