Analysis of Chinese herbal creams prescribed for dermatological conditions

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Abstract
Objective: To determine whether Chinese herbal creams used for the treatment of dermatological conditions contain steroids. Design: 11 herbal creams obtained from patients attending general and paediatric dermatology outpatient clinics were analysed with high resolution gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Setting: Departments of dermatology and clinical biochemistry. Main outcome measure: Presence of steroid. Results: Eight creams contained dexamethasone at a mean concentration of 456μg/g (range 64to 1500μg/g). All were applied to areas of sensitive skin such as face and flexures. Conclusion: Greater regulation needs to be imposed on Chinese herbalists to prevent illegal and inappropriate prescribing of potent steroids.