Steroid phobia on social media platforms.

Abstract

Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the most commonly prescribed treatment for children with atopic dermatitis and are supported by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) atopic dermatitis treatment guidelines with level I strength A evidence; however, fear regarding their use, coined "steroid phobia," is widespread. In this study, we analyzed steroid phobia-related content on popular social media platforms. We found much of this content consists of patients describing negative personal experiences with TCS and subsequently discouraging viewer use. We conclude that social media may contribute to steroid phobia, and we hope that our study motivates dermatologists with social media platforms to combat common misconceptions surrounding TCS use.

• Authors: Melissa A Nickles, Austin T Coale, William Jeremiah A Henderson, Kaylah E Brown, Dean S Morrell, Elizabeth L Nieman
• Journal: Pediatric dermatology (Pediatr Dermatol) 2023 May-Jun Vol. 40 Issue 3 Pg. 479-482 ISSN: 1525-1470 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 36815409 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2023 The Authors. Pediatric Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Chemical References

• Glucocorticoids
• Dermatologic Agents
• Steroids
• Adrenal Cortex Hormones

Topics

• Child
• Humans
• Dermatitis, Atopic (drug therapy)
• Social Media
• Surveys and Questionnaires
• Glucocorticoids
• Phobic Disorders
• Dermatologic Agents
• Steroids
• Adrenal Cortex Hormones