Betamethasone cream to treat diapers rash causing Cushing syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: Betamethasone causing iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome (CS) in infants are rarely reported.

Case presentation: In this case report, there were severe signs of CS, such as considerable weight acceleration and concurrent height deceleration, hirsutism and ecchymosis of the face, and buffalo pad, which are often found in adults. Clobetasol propionate, diflucortolone valerate, and dexamethasone nasal sprays were used in the majority of previously reported cases of corticosteroid abuse, whereas this is the first case of CS in an infant as a result of the use of betamethasone cream, also known as betnesol, which is frequently used by mothers in developing countries as a treatment for rashes. In this instance, a severe medication interaction caused by systemic betamethasone cream buildup led to the creation of CS. For the professionals, these patients are a challenge because of drug use without prescription.

Conclusions: Topical corticosteroid usage puts infants at risk for CS. Because of excessive betamethasone treatment in this child with diaper dermatitis, he acquired CS. It is said to draw attention to the risks of self-medication in developing nations.

Keywords: Cushing’s syndrome; betamethasone; diaper rash.