What is an intralesional steroid injection?“Intralesional Steroid Injections, or Intralesional Kenalog is a common treatment used in dermatology” notes Dr. Adam Mamelak, a board certified Dermatologist in Austin, TX. “The goal of these injections is to reduce the inflammation within the skin, as well as improving the appearance,” Dr. Mamelak states. These injections use corticosteroids, which can vary in concentration and make up.
What are Introlesional Steroid Injections used for?This form if injection is used in treating many skin conditions including acne lesions, cysts, alopecia (bald spots), eczema, abundant scar tissue (keloids, hypertrophic scars), psoriasis, lichen simplex chronicus, skin lupus, granuloma annulare, and more. Intralesional injections are extremely helpful, as they are able to bypass the outer defensive layers of the skin to reach an area that will make the greatest impact on your condition. It is common for a patient to need multiple injections, as different cases vary in severity.
What are the side effects of Intralesional Steroid Injections?- This injection is a form of steroid, which some may have an allergic reaction to. It is not very likely that you will be allergic, but it is possible may happen after injection.
- It is possible that the skin may become thinner in the area of injection (atrophy). This is not very likely, but could result in a dimpling of the skin. This tends to recover after some time.
- Bleeding may occur after any type of injection including intralesional steroids. It is also possible that the blood vessels surrounding the injection site may become more prominent after injection.
- Pigmentation can develop around the injection site.
- As with most injections, there is a chance that pain will be felt. Each area of the body has a different level of sensitivity for each individual, so discomfort is possible. Local anesthetics can be used if necessary to help with pressure or pain during the procedure.
- There is a slight possibility that a treatment may be ineffective, or that the condition may return after the injection.
These side effects are considered minor and/or uncommon. The treatment is generally considered well-tolerated and highly effective. The overall safety of these injections is well-established.
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If you have questions about intralesional steroid therapy, or if you think you might be a candidate for this treatment, please contact us at Sanova Dermatology today!
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