Dermatologic use of glucocorticoids. Systemic and topical

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Glucocorticoids represent approximately 50% of human dermatological prescriptions.
• While specific veterinary data is lacking, glucocorticoid use in dogs and cats is presumed to be similarly extensive.
• These drugs are often considered indispensable in dermatological practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant role and presumed widespread use of glucocorticoids in veterinary dermatology.
• To emphasize the importance of appropriate glucocorticoid therapy in managing dermatoses in companion animals.

Main Methods:

• Review of current dermatological practice in human medicine.
• Extrapolation of usage patterns to veterinary medicine based on clinical experience and presumed parallels.
• Emphasis on diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic management strategies.

Main Results:

• Glucocorticoids are a cornerstone of dermatological treatment in humans.
• It is highly probable that glucocorticoids are similarly prevalent in veterinary dermatology for dogs and cats.
• Careful application of glucocorticoid therapy, alongside accurate diagnosis, leads to successful outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Glucocorticoids are essential therapeutic agents in managing dermatological conditions.
• Veterinary dermatologists can achieve satisfactory management of numerous dermatoses by adhering to diagnostic principles and appropriate glucocorticoid administration.
• The "silver bullet" efficacy of glucocorticoids underscores their importance in clinical practice, provided they are used judiciously.