Cushing Syndrome from Percutaneous Absorption of 1% Hydrocortisone Ointment in Netherton Syndrome

  Netherton syndrome is a congenital skin disease associated with decreased skin barrier function and increased percutaneous absorption. We report an 11‐year‐old boy with Netherton syndrome who developed Cushing syndrome after application of 1% hydrocortisone ointment to his entire body for more than 1 year. This presentation illustrates that even low‐potency steroid ointments should be used with caution in Netherton syndrome and warns about the use of long‐term topical medications with potential systemic side effects when used in large quantities in any chronic skin disease.