ABSTRACT
When potent, fluorinated, topical corticosteroids are applied for long periods of time to susceptible body areas (such as the face or flexures), to areas where the skin is thin, where occlusive dressings are utilized, or where some degree of natural occlusion is unavoidable, adverse local side effects can supervene. These are
Atrophic changes. Topical fluorinated steroids inhibit skin collagen synthesis by fibroblasts. This impaired collagen synthesis can result in dermal atrophy and striae, the severity of which is directly related to the degree of inhibition. These changes are noted principally in intertriginous areas, and where occlusive dressings have been utilized.
