Red Skin Syndrome

Abstract

 Corticosteroids, often known as “steroids”, are man-made drugs that closely resemble cortisol, a hormone produced naturally by the adrenal gland, to regulate growth and immune function. They are anti-inflammatory medications prescribed for a wide range of conditions.  Topical steroids (applied to the skin & mucous membranes), are the most common prescribed medications for eczema, and were introduced into medicine about 50 years ago. They represent a significant milestone in dermatologic therapy.  Topical steroids are only applied to the diseased area, and absorbed into the cells of the skin where they stop them from producing many chemicals that induce inflammation, thereby, relieving related symptoms.