<p>The precise mechanism of the antiinflammatory activity of topical steroids in the treatment of steroid-responsive dermatoses, in general, is uncertain. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A2&nbsp;inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. This is achieved first by the drug binding to the glucocorticoid receptors which then translocates into the nucleus and binds to DNA causing various activations and repressions of genes. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.</p>