Local Cutaneous Atrophy following Corticosteroid Injection

Treatment of Local, Persistent Cutaneous Atrophy Following Corticosteroid Injection with Normal Saline Infiltration

“…The exact mechanism of cutaneous atrophy following injected CS is not fully understood but is likely due to several factors, most importantly decreased type I collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis 10 . Several investigators have examined the histology of local cutaneous atrophy 8,11–13 .…”

“…Other significant findings include homogenization of collagen, degeneration of sebaceous glands, decreased elastin, epidermal atrophy, involution of subcutaneous fat lobules, and the presence of CS crystals on polarized microscopy 8,12–14 . Iuel and Kryger reported a case of persistent local cutaneous atrophy following a series of injections of prednisolone tert‐butyl acetate to the metatarsophalangeal joint of the right great toe 10 . Histologic examination 2 years after injection revealed crystals presumed to be CS in the area of atrophy.…”

Linear Atrophy Following Intralesional Steroid Injections

“…There is no specific treatment for this condition. The injected steroid can be found at the site of injection for a considerable period of time 10 and will maintain the atrophy for this period of time. As in other cases of steroid‐induced atrophy the process is, however, reversible over a period of months 8…”

Injectable Corticosteroid and Local Anesthetic Preparations: A Review for Radiologists

“…The mechanisms underlying skin changes are not well elucidated, but several authors (51-54) attribute direct cytotoxicity, altered ground substance, vasoconstriction, and/or the mechanical effects of edema as potential underlying reasons. In addition, decreased type I collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis are important factors (55).…”