Background: Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated responses contribute to allergy and asthma. Little is understood regarding the relationship of tissue IgE to systemic IgE, inflammation or clinical outcomes.

Four cases of acne apparently induced by inhalation of potent corticosteroids prescribed for the treatment of asthma are described. In one case there appeared to be a dose-dependent relationship. While acne induced by topical or systemic administration of corticosteroids is well recognized, acne following inhaled corticosteroids has not previously been reported.