Steroid induced rosacea is an iatrogenic

Iatrogenesis

Iatrogenesis, or an iatrogenic artifact is an inadvertent adverse effect or complication resulting from medical treatment or advice, including that of psychologists, therapists, pharmacists, nurses, physicians and dentists...

condition (induced by the physician or patient) from the use of either systemic steroid or topical steroids. It is nearly identical to steroid induced acne from the standpoint of etiology.

Etiology

Steroid induced rosacea can be caused by the prolonged used of a topical steroid on the face. Topical steroid comes in 7 different strengths (Some countries use 4 categories). Class I is superpotent, and class VII is very weak. Usually, any categories of steroids over class VI can induce rosacea with prolonged use. The presentation is typically of inflammatory acne lesions consisting of pustules, papules, and cysts. The patient often admits to the daily use of a topical steroid, often being under the advisement of a physician. Examination of the pustules often revealed inflammatory cells, and in many cases, numerous motile demodex mites.

Treatment

Treatment often involve the gradual weaning off the topical steroid, and the use of a systemic antiinflammatory antibiotic. If the patient is using a strong topical steroid, he or she is weaned to a weaker class VI or VII steroid. Usually they are to use the substitute steroid daily, then only on weekends, then stop completely. The facial dermatitis and discomfort often worsen when they stop the offending steroid. The oral antibiotic will decrease the inflammatory nature of the lesions. The antibiotic of choice is usually a tetracycline antibiotic. Additionally, Tacrolimus combined with oral antibiotics has proven to speed up the recovery process.

Prevention

Physicians need to be aware of the danger of topical steroids. Only mild steroids should be applied to the face. The use of the topical steroid should be limitted to the condition. Alternate week therapy or 3 consecutive days a week therapy is better than continuous therapy in preventing steroid induced rosacea. Only the mildest topical steroid should be used on the face if a condition warrants such use. The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs does not necessary prevent steroid induced rosacea. Similar conditions have been seen with both Elidel and Protopic, possibly from immunosuppression and demodex or bacterial growth.