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Abstract
Cushing’s syndrome represents a condition of excess cortisol activity, arising either from internal overproduction or external administration of glucocorticoids, leading to a wide range of clinical features.1 Cushing’s syndrome in infancy is rare and most often iatrogenic. We report an infant who presented with rapid-onset weight gain and hypertrichosis due to chronic application of an over-the-counter steroid-containing ointment for diaper rash. Recognition of exogenous steroid exposure allowed timely withdrawal and clinical recovery. This case highlights the importance of medication history and the regulation of topical corticosteroid sales in resource-limited developing countries.
Keywords: Cushing Syndrome; Glucocorticoids; Administration, Topical; Infant; Iatrogenic Disease; Adrenal Insufficiency
References
Kuikel S, Aryal S, Basnyat RS, Rimal S. Cushing syndrome in a pediatric patient with topical steroid overuse. Case Rep Endocrinol. 2022;2022:8487737. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/8487737
Ahmed SM, Ahmed SF, Othman S, Abdulla BA, Mohammed SH, Salih AM, Kakamad FH. Topical corticosteroid-induced iatrogenic Cushing syndrome in an infant: a case report with literature review. Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2021;71:102978. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amsu.2021.102978
Kilci F, Sarıkaya E. Pediatric iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome: a series of seven cases induced by topical corticosteroid use. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2025;38(8):863–867. https://doi.org/10.1515/jpem-2025-0032
Matejek N, Hoos J, Holterhus PM, Menke LA, Lüdecke HJ, Bettendorf M, et al. Topical glucocorticoid application causing iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome followed by secondary adrenal insufficiency in infants: two case reports. J Med Case Rep. 2022;16:455. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-022-03659-2
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