The penetration of 0.005% fluticasone propionate ointment in eyelid skin

Background. The use of corticosteroids to treat periorbital dermatoses carr ies significant risk of serious side effects such as glaucoma, cataracts, a nd blindness. Studies to assess levels of corticosteroid penetration in the eyelid are lacking. Objective. We assessed corticosteroid penetration in eyelid skin in vitro t o obtain information leading to the establishment of safer dosing regimens. Methods. Fluticasone propionate ointment, 0.005%, was applied (approximatel y 2-5 mg/cm(2)) to samples of human eyelid skin, and penetration was assess ed by using modified Franz diffusion cells. Drug concentration was determin ed at 12, 24, 36, and 48 hours after application by Liquid chromatography t andem mass spectrometry. Results: Only very small amounts of fluticasone propionate penetrated the s kin (range, 0.618% +/- 0.339% to 1.467% +/- 0.695%). Conclusion: Further studies are warranted to examine the safety and efficac y of 0.005% fluticasone propionate ointment for the treatment of eyelid der matoses.