Studies on Adrenocortical Suppression Following Percutaneous Absorption of Topical Corticosteroids

—Observations on 0.1% Halcinonide Ointment Applied under Simple Method—

Abstract

Five patients with psoriasis or eczema were treated for 7 consecutive days with 0.1% halcinonide ointment 20∼40g daily (20∼40mg halcinonide). The serum 11-OHCS levels and urinary 17-OHCS levels were estimated for fifteen days before, during, and after treatment. The eosinophil counts and blood glucose levels were also estimated. The serum 11-OHCS levels were lowered in four cases. Decreasing of eosinophil counts occured in two cases and increasing of blood glucose levels was observed in two cases. The clinical effects were almost equal with some other potent steroids. The results indicate that the use of 0.1% halcinonide ointment 20∼40g daily results in percutaneous absorption of halcinonide to cause strong inhibition of adrenocortical function.