An overview of the efficacy of topical corticosteroids in experimental human nickel contact dermatitis

We review controlled trials of corticosteroid effect in experimentally elic ited acute nickel contact dermatitis in man, in the hope of clarifying opti mal efficacy for clinical use. To maximize discrimination and objectivity, we focus on data with 1 well-characterized allergen, nickel, in studies uti lizing bioengineering documentation. Higher potency corticosteroids are eff ective (unlike in experimental irritant contact dermatitis), but optimum sc hedules still require definition.