Hydrocortisone will penetrate the skin of the scalp better than the skin of the forearm.
a) True _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Correct ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ b) False _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Wrong answer ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ Answer and Commentary _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ There is a marked variation in the absorption of topical steroids according to body surface. The skin of the scrotum and eyelid is the most sensitive and therefore should only be treated with the mildest creams. Compared to the forearm, this skin absorbs 42 times better. The jaw is 13 times more absorptive than the forearm, the forehead 6 times, the scalp and axilla 3.5 times. These areas should all be treated with caution to avoid the development of striae or atrophy. Children are particularly sensitive, especially in the diaper area, and should be monitored closely with parents encouraged to use preventive measures to control diaper rash rather than relying on topical steroids. Although rare, development of cushingoid features and adrenal suppression can occur from prolonged use of potent steroids in the diaper area. ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯
