An infantile Cushing syndrome due to misuse of topical steroid

Chronic low-dose exogenous steroid therapy in children can result in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction. However, the development of Cushing syndrome from topical steroid therapy is unusual. A 9-month-old girl with a diagnosis of Cushing syndrome caused by long-term topical clobetasol propionate application was evaluated. The patient was found to have severe adrenal suppression. Limiting the use of steroid-containing drugs, prescription of less potent agents, especially during infancy, and warning of parents about potential side effects are very important.