EFFICACY AND RISKS OF TOPICAL STEROIDS IN CHILDHOOD

Inhaled glucocorticosteroids have become the cornerstone mode of anti- inflammatory treatment in children, especially with bronchial asthma. Many publications document the clinical efficacy of inhaled steroids a nd an increasing number of authors point out the possible systemic eff ects of topical steroids, such as effects on growth, impaired bone met abolism and adrenal suppression. The goal of this review article is to summarize published data. The author stresses possible relevant side effects in relation to dose and inhalation technique and focuses on th e most appropriate indications and therapeutic modalities of inhaled s teroids. The article yields valuable information for both practitioner s and clinicians which will assist them in administering inhaled stero ids and in discussing questions of safety with medical professionals a nd laymen.