CORTISONE AND CORTICOTROPIN (ACTH) IN DERMATOLOGY

Abstract

Since the therapeutic introduction of cortisone and corticotropin (ACTH) in 1949,¹ their scope of application has spread widely. Among the diseases of interest to the dermatologist, disseminated lupus erythematosus and psoriasis were the first in which the effects of these hormones were reported.² Since then numerous other dermatological conditions have been treated, and although experience is still limited, it is expanding daily. This report will summarize the results and observations in a variety of dermatoses treated with cortisone or corticotropin or both. DERMATOSES TREATED Lupus Erythematosus.— In acute systemic lupus erythematosus cortisone and corticotropin have brought about dramatic symptomatic improvement in seriously ill patients. There is improvement in well-being and in weight. The acute episode may be terminated in so far as the fever, prostration, anorexia, articular pain, and lesions of the skin and mucous membrane are concerned. At times signs of serous involvement have been eliminated, but,