Misuse of topical corticosteroids: a clinical study in an Iraqi hospital

We assessed the frequency of, reasons for and the most common dermatological problems resulting from misuse of topical corticosteroids. We used a questionnaire and skin examination to study patients presenting at the dermatological centre, Al-Sadr Teaching Hospital, Al-Najaf, Iraq during the period March 2001–April 2002. Of 1780 new patients, 140 (7.9%) had misused topical corticosteroids. About half were aged 10–19 years. Potent and highly potent preparations were the most commonly used. In 34.3% of cases, medical staff were responsible for prescribing/recommending the drugs.