When a reaction occurs at the site of a vesicant injection (e.g., in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy), close monitoring by a physician or the injection of local antidotes may be required. Reactions that result in infection or necrosis may need to be treated with antibiotics or with surgical dÃ©bridement.
Cortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid ointment that reduces inflammation to areas where applied. It is often used to topically treat arthritis pain from inflammation of the joints, as well as inflammation of the skin caused by various skin disorders and conditions. Available in over-the-counter strength, it is usually sold as hydrocortisone.
Cortisone injection, in my practice, is used for hypertrophic or keloid scarring and reduction in inflammation. These type of scars are indicative of over-stimulation of collagen. Cortisone is injected to slow collenogenesis and decrease inflammation. A decline in reddness is also noted if discoloraton has occurred. The area injected may be swollen for a few minutes. Following the initial edema and absorption of the fluid, the tissue should not be more swollen than pre-injection.