Iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome caused by topical corticosteroid application and its life threatening complications

Introduction: The use of topical corticosteroids in children and adults, especially in covered areas and for a prolonged duration, may result in Cushing's syndrome and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Case Presentation: The present report describes the cases of three children and a 25-year-old man who presented with clinical features of Cushing's syndrome and adrenal insufficiency following prolonged use of clobetasol cream. Two of the children continued with hypertension even after discontinuation of clobetasol, and were treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. One of these two children had developed acute renal failure, hypertensive encephalopathy, and permanent visual loss prior to admission. Conclusions: Whenever a cushingoid appearance is accompanied by adrenal insufficiency, the exogenous use of steroids, especially topical creams, should be explored. Hypertension may persist even after cessation of use and may result in life threatening complications. © 2015, Iranian Society of Pediatrics