Volume :

2

Issue :

2

Abstract :

Glucocorticoids are important in the treatment of many inflammatory, allergic, immunologic, and malignant disorders, and the toxicity of glucocorticoids is one of the commonest causes of iatrogenic illness associated with chronic inflammatory disease. Glucocorticoid-induced muscle atrophy is characterized by fast-twitch or type II muscle fiber atrophy. Corticosteroid (CS) therapy is widely used in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. Osteoporosis remains one of its major complications. Steroid induced glaucoma is a form of open angle glaucoma occurring as an adverse effect of corticosteroid therapy. Glucocorticoids induce hepatic and extrahepatic insulin resistance. Glucocorticoid treatment impairs both glucose transport in fat and muscle cells. Corticosteroid-induced psychosis represents a spectrum of psychological changes that can occur at any time during treatment. Cushing’s syndrome describes the signs and symptoms associated with prolonged exposure to inappropriately high levels of the hormone cortisol. Physicians must be aware of these adverse effects and be equipped to manage them.