[Principles of glucocorticoid therapy].

The principles of systemic glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in dermatology are reviewed. As a basis for an efficient GC therapy with few side effects the pharmacology, endogenous regulation as well as the mechanisms and side effects of GCs as well as their management are introduced. Modern therapeutic approaches such as circadian application and low-dose therapy are discussed as well as principles of tapering dosages and the most important indications for systemic GCs in dermatology.