Final answer:
Topical steroids are used to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses in a variety of skin conditions. They are applied directly to affected areas, carefully measured using the fingertip unit concept. While effective in symptom management, they may not treat the underlying cause of skin conditions, necessitating medical follow-up for persistent issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Topical Steroid Applications:
Topical steroids such as hydrocortisone creams and lotions are medicines used on the skin (topical means applied to the skin) to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various skin conditions. The route of administration for these medications is significant, particularly in cases where drugs cannot be easily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. This is why topical preparations are used, for instance, to treat fungal infections of the skin, mouth, and vagina, as well as yeast infections and more systemic fungal conditions like aspergillosis.
In terms of dosage and use, it is important to apply only the prescribed amount to affected areas. The finger tip unit concept may be helpful in this, guiding how much topical cream is required to cover different areas. These creams can be applied to most external skin surfaces, but care must be taken with areas that are sensitive, such as the face, or where the skin is thin and more prone to systemic absorption, such as the eyelids or genitals.
It is important to note that while corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone can effectively suppress symptoms such as inflammation, itching, and rashes, they may not always address the underlying cause of the condition. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be brought to the attention of a healthcare provider for further assessment and management.