ABSTRACT
The topical corticosteroid (glucocorticoid) therapy of steroid-sensitive dermatoses such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis vulgaris aims at a strong antiinflammatory action on the skin and minor (if any) systemic and local side effects. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression perceptible by unphysiologically low serum cortisol concentrations may occur after topical application of highpotency but also with low-potency glucocorticoids.1.2 Partially damaged and diseased skin as well as application on large areas of the body surface for extended periods favor adrenal atrophy.3•5 Higher amounts of drug are also absorbed from physiologically occluded areas.6 Special treatment schedules particularly for use in chronic skin diseases and risk groups like children7•8 and elderly persons9 may be helpful to minimize adverse effects.
