Intramuscular Triamcinolone: A Safe, Effective and Underutilized Dermatologic Therapy

Although intramuscular triamcinolone acetonide has been available as a dermatologic therapy for many years, it is used sparingly or not at all by many dermatologists because of concern about its safety, as well as a lack of understanding of its specific therapeutic benefits. This case report discusses the efficacy and safety of intramuscular triamcinolone acetonide, along with description of the specific technique employed by the author, as well as the clinical indications and side effects seen by the author in his practice over time. The report describes the positive results attained in the treatment of many chronic, recalcitrant dermatologic conditions that cannot be adequately controlled by topical therapy alone. Because of its strong safety profile and unique therapeutic efficacy, intramuscular triamcinolone should be considered as a primary therapy for many chronic, steroid responsive, dermatologic conditions requiring a systemic approach.