Analysis of Chinese herbal creams prescribed for dermatological conditions.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether Chinese herbal creams used for the treatment of dermatological conditions contain steroids.


METHODS
11 herbal creams obtained from patients attending general and paediatric dermatology outpatient clinics were analysed with high resolution gas chromatography and mass spectrometry.


METHODS
Departments of dermatology and clinical biochemistry.


METHODS
Presence of steroid.


RESULTS
Eight creams contained dexamethasone at a mean concentration of 456 micrograms/g (range 64 to 1500 micrograms/g). All were applied to areas of sensitive skin such as face and flexures.


CONCLUSIONS
Greater regulation needs to be imposed on Chinese herbalists to prevent illegal and inappropriate prescribing of potent steroids.
Departments of Dermatology and Clinical Biochemistry, King's College Hospital, London SE5 9RS. FionaKeane99@hotmail.com
F M
FM
Keane
S E
SE
Munn
A W
AW
du Vivier
N F
NF
Taylor
E M
EM
Higgins
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000737:chemistry; D002648:Child; D002849:Chromatography, Gas; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal / Q000737:chemistry*; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006801:Humans; D009824:Ointments / Q000737:chemistry*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013256:Steroids / Q000032:analysis*
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D009824:Ointments; D013256:Steroids; D003907:Dexamethasone