The Biology and Clinical Application of Systemic Glucocorticoids
November 1992
in “
Current problems in dermatology
”
TLDR Glucocorticoids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that must be used carefully to avoid serious side effects.
The document from 1992 provides a comprehensive review of the biology and clinical application of systemic glucocorticoids. It covers their molecular structure, receptor binding, and effects on gene expression, as well as their physiological roles in regulating various bodily systems. The paper discusses the pharmacology of glucocorticoids, including their absorption, metabolism, and excretion, and outlines their therapeutic use in a wide range of inflammatory diseases. It also addresses the potential adverse effects of glucocorticoids, such as osteoporosis, growth suppression in children, and neuropsychiatric changes, and emphasizes the importance of using the lowest effective dose to minimize these risks. The document concludes that while glucocorticoids are potent anti-inflammatory agents, their use requires careful management to balance the benefits against the potential for serious side effects.
