Asteatotic dermatitis
Asteatotic dermatitis is caused by drying of the skin. The condition presents as cracked dermatitis with a ‘crazy-paving’ appearance, and is common in elderly people. It may be a sign of hypothyroidism and can occur in people taking diuretics or lipid-lowering drugs.
Advise patients to frequently apply emollients to correct the dry skin; see Improving skin condition.
If the skin does not respond, apply a topical corticosteroid. Use:
1methylprednisolone aceponate (adult, or child 4 months or older) 0.1% ointment or fatty ointment topically, once daily until skin is clear (usually takes 1 to 2 weeks) methylprednisolone aceponate methylprednisolone aceponate methylprednisolone aceponate
OR
1triamcinolone acetonide 0.02% ointment topically, once daily until skin is clear (usually takes 1 to 2 weeks). triamcinolone acetonide triamcinolone acetonide triamcinolone acetonide
When the skin clears, advise patients to continue to use an emollient to prevent dry skin.
If the skin does not clear after around 4 to 6 weeks, refer for dermatologist advice. See also Lack of response to treatment of dermatitis.