Steroid atrophy--a histological appraisal.

This histological changes induced by 1 month's applications of various corticorteroids to normal forearm skin were studied. Marked epidermal atrophy was present at 1 month with the more potent steroids, but the dermal changes were minimal or absent. The methods outlined in this study could serve as a useful model for assessing the unwanted atrophogenic action of potent corticosteroid preparations.