Percutaneous absorption of topically applied triamcinolone in children.

The real and potential problems associated with the percutaneous absorption of topically applied corticosteroids have been used as an argument against the prolonged administration of these drugs. Many pediatricians and dermatologists consider children to be more likely to absorb substantial quantities of topically applied corticosteroids than adults. This study examines the percutaneous absorption of 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide ointment applied four times a day for a period of six weeks to patients with severe atopic eczema. The results of 8 AM and 4 PM plasma cortisol and 24-hour urinary cortisol determinations do not indicate any notable adrenal suppression. No patient had an 8 AM cortisol value that would be considered in the abnormal range. These results indicate that the use of a medium-strength topical corticosteroid for this length of time probably poses no noteworthy hazard from percutaneous absorption.