Trunk or limb atopic dermatitis
For widespread mild atopic dermatitis of the trunk or limbs, larger quantities of topical corticosteroid are needed. Use:
triamcinolone acetonide 0.02% ointment topically, once daily until skin is clear. triamcinolone acetonide triamcinolone acetonide triamcinolone acetonide
For more severe atopic dermatitis of the trunk or limbs, or for dermatitis in the flexures, use:
1methylprednisolone aceponate (adult, or child 4 months or older) 0.1% ointment or fatty ointment topically, once daily until skin is clear methylprednisolone aceponate methylprednisolone aceponate methylprednisolone aceponate
OR
1mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment topically, once daily until skin is clear. mometasone furoate mometasone furoate mometasone furoate
A response to topical corticosteroid is usually seen after around 4 to 6 weeks; if the atopic dermatitis is slow to respond to therapy, consider using modified dressings (eg wet dressings, soak and smear technique) in addition to the topical corticosteroid.
If the atopic dermatitis still does not respond, see Lack of response to treatment of dermatitis.