Topical Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Pediatric Asthma

Topical corticosteroids have been available for treatment in the United States for over 15 years. These agents are becoming more commonplace in the regimen for treating asthma. This is due to our understanding of the late-phase reaction and bronchial hyperreactivity and a greater appreciation of the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of asthma. Topical corticosteroids are well suited to control bronchial hyperreactivity and inflammation because of their anti-inflammatory effect. This report discusses our current knowledge of topical corticosteroids, their use in pediatric asthma, and the possible adverse reactions that may be experienced by pediatric patients.