Consensus Statements on the Use of Corticosteroid-Containing Topical Medications in Psoriasis.

Abstract

This article aims to provide consensus statements on the use of corticosteroid-containing topical medications for the management of psoriasis. This Psoriasis Expert Group (PEG) includes dermatologist voting members with expertise in psoriasis who convened and evaluated the use of topical medications and previously published guidelines. A modified Delphi process was conducted to reach consensus results. Two rounds of voting were conducted for each topic and panel consensus was determined.  Nine statements were developed regarding topical medication efficacy, patient quality of life, frequency of application, medication "feel", and safety and tolerability. Dermatologist experts voted on the statements separately. Patients were not polled. All items received agreement: 15 with high consensus and 1 with moderate consensus.  For the treatment of psoriasis, the PEG agreed that patients and physicians prefer topical medications that are effective, provide long-lasting results, have a quick onset of action, and "feel good on the skin" with few adverse effects. The developed consensus statements provide guidance on the topical treatment of psoriasis, including combination therapies, such as a vitamin D and topical corticosteroid analog. These recommendations will be continuously reviewed and updated as more evidence continues to emerge.  April W. Armstrong AW, Reddy R, Khan S, et al. Consensus statements on the use of corticosteroid-containing topical medications in psoriasis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(8):736-741. doi:10.36849/JDD.7453.