Steroid induced atrophy in groin

[Ewok1976]

Thanks for taking my question.

35 year old male, presented to GP jock itch that had flared up again.  Was prescribed Lotrisone and told to apply daily to affected areas.    Took a while for the skin to clear up but after 6 weeks I discontinued treatment.

Two weeks later developed burning sensation,  on closer inspection and web research I realized I had developed strIae and a few days later depressions in the area where thigh skin meets torso skin..  These depressed areas  are quite sensitive and I fear I will not be able to run/bike/hike in the future.  I'm now at three weeks post treatment, I am able to go about my day using moisturizer morning and night and talc powder during the day if things get too wet, with a constant low level irritation.

My question is if/when I  can expect the depressed areas to toughen up, and am I doing the right thing.   Should I be using zinc oxide on the very sensitive areas?

Thank you so much.

[SteroidHell]

Please participate in my poll on this very matter, if you get a chance:
http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Dermatology/HAVE-YOU-EXPERIENCED-STEROID-ATROPHY-FROM-USING-LOTRISONE-ON-YOUR-PRIVATES/show/1727012

[SteroidHell]

It definitely is irreversible and the damage can occur in as little as three (3) days.  My doctor prescribed lotrisone.  Between two doctors, and the pharmacist who did not give me the paperwork that went with the medication, they have mutilated me.  This was six years ago, when I was only 39 and only two weeks after my birthday. What a great birthday present they gave me.  Horrible steroid atrophy of the skin of my scrotum for the rest of my life.  I'm deeply depressed til this day and the rage I feel towards these people is beyond human.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is always advisable to use the steroid cream after a dermatologist’s prescription because steroid creams can cause further side effects like thinning skin, increased skin fragility and telangiectasia. What you are having are side effects of using the steroids. It should go away in a few days when you discontinue steroids. But if it does not then get an evaluation done from a dermatologist because some effects of steroids may be irreversible.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.