CUTANEOUS CORTICOSTEROID THERAPY AND CATARACT IN MAN

Abstract

Introduction: It is well established that the use of corticosteroids is associated with the development of cataracts (posterior subcapsular cataract). This type of cataract is also related with cataract found in patients with atopic dermatitis. Since many patients use topical corticoids for treatment of skin diseases, it may be possible that an association between cataract (and glaucoma) and corticosteroids' treatment exists. Objective: Relating the cutaneous corticosteroid use and the development of cataract in patients with dermatologic disease. Material and Methods: A review of literature using Medline and citations in articles to obtain this case-report series. Results: Seven patients (all men) developed cataract while using topical corticosteroids for skin diseases. Three of these seven patients also presented with glaucoma, possibly as a complication of topical corticoid on the face. Conclusion: Cataract seems to be related to topical steroids' use in periocular skin, but their real importance needs to be evaluated.