Effectiveness of Corticosteroid Tapes and Plasters for Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

Abstract In Japan, corticosteroid tapes and plasters have long served as a first-line therapy for keloids and hypertrophic scars. Pediatric patients are particularly responsive to this type of treatment. This may reflect the fact children have thinner skin than adults and the steroids are therefore more easily absorbed. The postoperative application of corticosteroid tapes/plasters also significantly prevents the development of keloids and hypertrophic scars after surgery. Steroid tape is available in the following three countries in different preparations. In the UK, the commercially available formulation comprises a fludroxycortide-impregnated tape (4 μg/cm 2 ). Fludroxycortide tape is a Group III preparation. The USA has a steroid tape preparation that contains 4 μg/cm 2 flurandrenolide, which is also a Group III preparation. In Japan, two steroid tape formulations are available, namely, the Group III preparation found in the UK (4 μg/cm 2 fludroxycortide tape) and a 20 μg/cm 2 deprodone propionate tape. Deprodone propionate tape is considered to be a Group I or II preparation. In our experience, deprodone propionate tape (Eclar® plaster) is the most effective tape for the treatment and prevention of keloids.