Cushing Syndrome Induced by Topical Corticosteroids for the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus

Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Navigating Sex Hormone Dynamics and Pioneering Personalized Treatment Paradigm

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a frequently overlooked inflammatory disorder affecting the skin and mucous membranes of the vulva. With a propensity for atrophy, severe scarring, functional impairment, and malignant evolution, VLS is a disease that recurs frequently; early diagnosis, rapid treatment, and ongoing patient follow-up are essential. Potent topical corticosteroids (TCSs) are now widely recognized as the most effective treatment for achieving remission in VLS, but considering the potential complications of long-term treatment with potent TCSs, understanding the evolution of VLS during puberty becomes particularly crucial in determining the necessity for aggressive or more conservative therapeutic interventions. Emerging treatments, including PRP (platelet-rich plasma), stem cell therapy, and energy-based lasers like fractional CO2 and Nd-YAG, are being investigated to identify more effective VLS treatments than ultrapotent topical corticosteroids. However, more research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these new medicines. Topical clobetasol 0.05% ointment daily for 4-12 weeks is the gold standard for treating VLS. This article is a narrative review of the English-language medical literature from 2017 to November 2023, following three main sections concerning VLS: studies of the evolution amid pubertal hormonal changes; studies of the outcomes of personalized conventional therapies; and studies addressing the spectrum of innovative modalities for VLS.

Too much of a good thing? Iatrogenic Cushing syndrome secondary to excessive topical steroid use in lichen sclerosus

We report a patient using excessive quantities of topical steroid treatment for lichen sclerosus without supervision who developed Cushing syndrome. These treatments are very safe when used appropriately and this highlights the importance of good follow-up and patient education.

Pediatric Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus-A Review of the Literature

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the anogenital region, which may present in a prepubertal or adolescent patient. The most popular theories are its autoimmune and genetic conditioning, although theories concerning hormonal and infectious etiology have also been raised. The most common presenting symptoms of VLS is vulva pruritus, discomfort, dysuria and constipation. In physical examination, a classic “Figure 8” pattern is described, involving the labia minora, clitoral hood, and perianal region. The lesions initially are white, flat-topped papules, thin plaques, or commonly atrophic patches. Purpura is a hallmark feature of VLS. The treatment includes topical anti-inflammatory agents and long-term follow-up, as there is a high risk of recurrence and an increased risk of vulvar cancer in adult women with a history of lichen sclerosus. This article reviews vulvar lichen sclerosus in children and provides evidence-based medicine principles for treatment in the pediatric population. A systematic search of the literature shows recurrence of VLS in children. Maintenance regimens deserve further consideration.

Topical triamcinolone induced Cushing syndrome: A case report

We present a case of iatrogenic Cushing syndrome and adrenal insufficiency in a newborn secondary to an overuse of triamcinolone cream 0.1% prescrived for the treatment of diaper dermatitis.This case highlignts the risks of systemic absorption when prescribing topical medications in the diaper area of an infant, and the importance of caution and proper follow up when prescribing even mid potency steroids to pediatric patients. .

[Fatal outcome of Netherton syndrome due to excessive use of topical corticosteroids in an adult patient]

INTRODUCTION

Netherton syndrome (NS) is a rare disease caused by SPINK5 mutations associated with ichthyosis (erythroderma and desquamation), alopecia and atopic manifestations. There are no effective treatments. Topical corticosteroids may be used for a limited period in the event of eczema. Herein we report on a patient with fatal complications related to misuse of topical corticosteroids.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A 38-year-old woman with NS had been using betamethasone for about ten years for severe pruritus. Consumption was estimated at 7.2kg per year. On examination, she had osteoporosis, Cushing's syndrome, corticotropic insufficiency and inframammary, axillary, and intergluteal superinfected intertrigo. During hospitalization for necrotic leg wounds on severe skin atrophy, she sustained a fracture on falling down. The course was marked by the onset of septic shock of unknown etiology, complicated by acute adrenal insufficiency leading to fatal multi-organ failure.

DISCUSSION

Many iatrogenic cases related to topical corticosteroids in children have been reported in the literature, including one case of fatal outcome (CMV infection) in an infant. Such iatrogenic cases are rarer in adults and we observed no fatal cases. In NS, the adverse effects of topical corticosteroids are amplified due to the major defect in the skin barrier which enhances the systemic passage of these drugs. In the absence of any effective therapeutic alternative, weaning patients off topical corticosteroids is usually difficult.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates the severity of iatrogenic effects secondary to misuse of topical corticosteroids in NS as well as the need to find effective new treatments for this syndrome.