As long term laboratory creep data became available the original estimates of the allowable design stresses for creep strength enhanced ferritic steels (CSEF) were reduced. Thus, even in properly processed steel, the long term performance and creep rupture strength reported is below that originally predicted from a simple extrapolation of short term data. In addition, the typical alloy compositions for these steels specified by Codes provide reasonable strength but can steels can exhibit brittle creep behavior. This inherent brittle behavior results in notch weakening and the need to invoke weld strength reduction factors. Moreover, creep brittle behavior, and the associated micro void development, promotes burst rather than leak type fracture in components. The existence of significant densities of voids further complicates in-service assessment of condition and weld repair of these steels. It is now clear that the levels of ductility required in engineering applications necessitate proper control of composition (including trace elements), steel making and processing and all heat treatments. This paper examines background on the development of creep voids in martensitic steels and discusses metallurgical and stress state factors which promote brittle behavior.