[Glucocorticoids for dermatologic disorders].

It is a characteristic feature in the dermatologic field that topical corticosteroid is one of the most important treatments in addition to systemic corticosteroid therapy. Therefore, physicians who try to treat dermatologic disorders must understand the principles for the choice of therapy and basic methods of topical usage. Basic schedules to use corticosteroids for the treatment of autoimmune bullous diseases, collagen diseases including systemic lupus erythomatodes and related diseases, and vasculitis are described. Practical aspects of topical corticosteroids for various skin disorders are also introduced. Although corticosteroid therapy is the most effective for inflammatory skin diseases, it must be kept in mind that this therapy is only anti-symptomatic and the true cause for the skin disorder must be found.