complications
Last reviewed 03/2021
- cutaneous infection occurs secondary to reduced immunity and reduced barrier function of skin:
- viral infections - herpes simplex causing eczema herpeticum; warts; molluscum contagiosum;
- bacterial infection - colonisation of epidermis by staphylococcal aureus; frank staphylococcal infection such as impetigo
- atopic cataract - often bilateral, peak incidence between 15 and 25 years; also, increased risk of developing corticosteroid induced cataracts
- growth retardation - affects about 10% of children; not thought to be due to steroid therapy