A clinicoepidemiological study of topical corticosteroid misuse at a tertiary care center

Background: Misuse of topical corticosteroids (TCS) has become a burning issue in many countries across the globe. Nonprescriptional sale, lack of awareness, and nonavailability of qualified dermatologist are some of the contributing factors. Aim: To assess the clinicoepidemiological profile of patients misusing TCS and assess various factors contributing to it. Methods: All the patients presenting to the dermatology OPD of a tertiary care center were screened by asking for application of any topical medication. Those patients who were found to be using TCS inappropriately as per clinical diagnosis were included in the study. Results: A total of 324 out of 8621 (3.76%) patients were included in the study. Maximum number of patients belonged to the age-group of 21-30 years. The most common steroid was clobetasol followed by mometasone and beclomethasone. The most common primary dermatosis was dermatophytosis followed by acne vulgaris and melasma. Unavailability of dermatologist was the most common reason cited by the patients for the use of these preparations. Conclusion: Nonprescriptional sale of TCS is the major factor responsible for TCS abuse in India. Creating awareness (both amongst patients and prescribers) and adequate dermatology training to undergraduate medical students is the need of the hour.