Immunocompromised Patients

Question 0

What are the side effects of corticosteroid therapy?

Answer 0

Inflammatory response is suppressed 
More at risk of developing diabetes
Cushingoid appearance
More likely to catch fungal infections
High blood pressure 
Osteoporosis
Adrenal suppression
Gastric ulceration

Question 1

What is corticosteroid therapy used for?

Answer 1

Corticosteroids are anti inflammatory so can be used to treat conditions associated with inflammation.
Severe asthma
COPD
Rheumatoid arthritis
Lupus

Question 2

What is a steroid crisis?

Answer 2

Patients on corticosteroids are unable to mount a stress response, due to adrenal suppression, so in the case of dental work they may need steroid cover incase they become stressed. Risk of adrenal crisis and hypotension and collapse.