A Case of Hypersensitivity to Corticosteroids

SUMMARY.— A patient is described who developed skin eruptions after both intra‐articular and oral administration of corticosteroids. Skin tests with highly purified steroid compounds were consistently and strongly positive, but an extensive series of in vitro tests for circulating and cell‐bound steroid‐specific antibody was negative. The possible reasons for this are discussed and brief descriptions given of 2 other patients who developed generalized reactions after intra‐articular injections of corticosteroids. It is suggested that steroid hypersensitivity is an entity which ought to be considered in patients who develop unusual skin reactions during the course of steroid therapy.