Qualitative analysis of topical corticosteroid concerns, topical steroid addiction and withdrawal in dermatological patients.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To explore the phenomenon of topical corticosteroid (TCS) phobia and comprehensively understand the factors driving TCS concerns, in particular pertaining to steroid addiction and withdrawal.

Design

Prospective qualitative study using 1:1 in-depth semistructured interviews and analysed using grounded theory.

Participants

Patients with a prior experience of TCS use for a dermatological condition recruited from a tertiary academic dermatology clinic, or through word of mouth and online social media platforms.

Results

26 participants encompassing those with positive, neutral and negative opinions towards TCS were interviewed. 13 reported having topical steroid addiction or withdrawal. The drivers of TCS concerns could be categorised into seven themes: at

SUBMITTER: Tan S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8928312 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature