BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preven...BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preventing respiratory distress syndrome.Ongoing research on antenatal corticosteroids(ACS)is continuously refining the evidence regarding their efficacy and potential side effects,which may alter the application of this treatment.Recent findings indicate that in resource-limited settings,the effectiveness of ACS is contingent upon meeting specific conditions,including providing adequate medical support for preterm newborns.Future studies are expected to concentrate on developing evidence-based strategies to safely enhance ACS utilization in low-and middle-income countries.AIM To analyze the clinical effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in improving outcomes for preterm newborns in a tertiary care hospital setting in Kazakhstan,following current World Health Organization guidelines.METHODS This study employs a comparative retrospective cohort design to analyze single-center clinical data collected from January 2022 to February 2024.A total of 152 medical records of preterm newborns with gestational ages between 24 and 34 weeks were reviewed,focusing on the completeness of the ACS received.Quantitative variables are presented as means with standard deviations,while frequency analysis of qualitative indicators was performed using Pearson'sχ^(2) test(χ^(2))and Fisher's exact test.If statistical significance was identified,pairwise comparisons between the three observation groups were conducted using the Bonferroni correction.RESULTS The obtained data indicate that the complete implementation of antenatal steroid prophylaxis(ASP)improves neonatal outcomes,particularly by reducing the frequency of birth asphyxia(P=0.002),the need for primary resuscitation(P=0.002),the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure(P=0.022),and the need for surfactant replacement therapy(P=0.038)compared to groups with incomplete or no ASP.Furthermore,complete ASP contributed to a decrease in morbidity among preterm newborns(e.g.,respiratory distress syndrome,intrauterine pneumonia,cerebral ischemia,bronchopulmonary dysplasia,etc.),improved Apgar scores,and reduced the need for re-intubation and the frequency of mechanical ventilation.However,it was associated with an increased incidence of uterine atony in postpartum women(P=0.0095).CONCLUSION In a tertiary hospital setting,the implementation of ACS therapy for pregnancies between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation at high risk for preterm birth significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal complications and related interventions.This,in turn,contributes to better outcomes for this cohort of children.However,the impact of ACS on maternal outcomes requires further thorough investigation.展开更多
BACKGROUND Severe alcoholic hepatitis(SAH)carries a 90-day mortality rate approaching 50%.Management includes corticosteroids,nutritional support,and early liver transplantation in selected cases.However,the mid-term ...BACKGROUND Severe alcoholic hepatitis(SAH)carries a 90-day mortality rate approaching 50%.Management includes corticosteroids,nutritional support,and early liver transplantation in selected cases.However,the mid-term impact of available therapies remains unclear.This systematic review provides a critical evaluation of treatments for SAH,specifically focusing on survival or mortality at 90 days as an essential window that captures short-and mid-term outcomes.The 90-day window is clinically significant,as it reflects the remission of systemic inflam-mation,early liver recovery,and minimizes confounding long-term behaviors such as alcohol relapse.AIM To review the effect of different treatments for SAH on survival and mortality at 90 days.METHODS A systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE(last updated March 2025)was performed without language restrictions,focusing on studies published in the last decade.Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by at least two reviewers.Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and Risk-of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tools.Due to heterogeneity in study designs and interventions,a meta-analysis was not feasible.A qualitative synthesis was conducted using narrative summaries and evidence tables.RESULTS Searches in the databases yielded 645 citations in PubMed and 1516 in EMBASE.Of these 2161 studies,618 were duplicates and therefore removed.A total of eight studies were included in qualitative synthesis.Among the included publications,six were randomized control trials(RCT)and two were retrospective cohort studies.These studies evaluated 90-day mortality or survival in SAH patients treated with corticosteroids(n=2),pentoxifylline(n=1),anakinra plus zinc(n=2),granulocyte colony-stimulating factor(n=1),amoxicillin-clavulanate(n=1),fecal microbiota transplantation(n=1)or extracorporeal liver assist device(n=1).While most studies were conducted in Western countries,two had a global scope.CONCLUSION Steroids remain the first-line therapy for SAH despite reports of them not having any 90-day survival benefit.These results highlight the need for multicenter,biomarker-guided RCTs evaluating emerging treatments to improve mid-term survival in SAH.展开更多
BACKGROUND Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome(PRES)is a complex neurological disorder characterized by symptoms such as headaches,seizures,confusion,and visual disturbances.The pathophysiology of PRES involv...BACKGROUND Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome(PRES)is a complex neurological disorder characterized by symptoms such as headaches,seizures,confusion,and visual disturbances.The pathophysiology of PRES involves endothelial dysfunction,disrupted cerebral autoregulation,and resulting vasogenic edema.Hypertension and other factors that alter cerebral autoregulation are critical in its development.Corticosteroids,widely used for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties,play a controversial role in PRES.AIM To elucidate the dual role of corticosteroids in the context of PRES by critically evaluating the existing literature.Specifically,it seeks to assess the results of PRES induced by corticosteroid therapy and the efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in the treatment of PRES.By synthesizing case reports and series,this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms,clinical presentations,and management strategies associated with corticosteroid-related PRES.METHODS The review was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines.The databases searched included Science Direct,PubMed,and Hinari.The search strategy encompassed terms related to corticosteroids and PRES.Studies were included if they were peer-reviewed articles examining corticosteroids in PRES,excluding non-English publications,reviews,and editorials.Data on patient demographics,clinical characteristics,imaging findings,corticosteroid regimens,and outcomes were extracted.The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for case reports.RESULTS A total of 56 cases of PRES(66.1%women,33.9%men)potentially induced by corticosteroids and 14 cases in which corticosteroids were used to treat PRES were identified.Cases of PRES reportedly caused by corticosteroids showed a mean age of approximately 25.2 years,with seizures,headaches,hypertension,and visual disturbances being common clinical sequelae.Magnetic resonance findings typically revealed vasogenic edema in the bilateral parieto-occipital lobes.High-dose or prolonged corticosteroid therapy was a significant risk factor.On the contrary,in the treatment cases,corticosteroids were associated with positive outcomes,including resolution of vasogenic edema and stabilization of symptoms,particularly in patients with underlying inflammatory or autoimmune diseases.CONCLUSION Corticosteroids have a dual role in PRES,capable of both inducing and treating the condition.The current body of literature suggests that corticosteroids may play a greater role as a precipitating agent of PRES rather than treating.Corticosteroids may induce PRES through hypertension and subsequent increased cerebral blood flow and loss of autoregulation.Corticosteroids may aid in the management of PRES:(1)Enhancing endothelial stability;(2)Antiinflammatory properties;and(3)Improving blood-brain barrier integrity.Mechanisms which may reduce or mitigate vasogenic edema formation.展开更多
Introduction: The severity of Sars-Cov-2 infection is associated with the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The progression to ARDS appears to be driven by a major inflammatory mechanism poten...Introduction: The severity of Sars-Cov-2 infection is associated with the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The progression to ARDS appears to be driven by a major inflammatory mechanism potentially sensitive to corticosteroids. Observation: This article describes the case of an elderly patient was admitted to emergency departments for intense asthenia, accompanied by motor diarrhoea, dyspnoea with desaturation in ambient air, in a context of strong suspicion of infection linked to COVID-19. The article also reviews the existing literature on the diagnosis and treatment of this severe form of the disease. Conclusion: Corticosteroids, and in particular dexamethasone, have been shown to be effective in the management of patients with COVID-19, an oxygen-releasing disease.展开更多
Diabetic macular edema(DME)is a common cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients.It is caused by an increase in the permeability of the perifoveal capillaries and a disruption of the blood retinal-barrier.The pa...Diabetic macular edema(DME)is a common cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients.It is caused by an increase in the permeability of the perifoveal capillaries and a disruption of the blood retinal-barrier.The pathogenesis of DME is multifactorial.Several therapeutic modalities have been proposed for the treatment of DME.Corticosteroid treatments have emerged as an alternative therapy for persistent DME or refractory to conventional laser photocoagulation and other modalities,due to anti-inflammatory,anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and anti-proliferative effects.Many studies have demonstrated the beneficial therapeutic effect of corticosteroids with improvement to both retinal thickness and visual acuity in short-term on the treatment of DME.Peribulbar and intravitreal injections have been used to deliver steroids for DME with frequent injections due to the chronic and recurrent nature of the disease.Steroid-related side effects include elevated intraocular pressure,cataract,and injection related complications such as endophthalmitis,vitreous hemorrhage,and retinal detachment particularly with intravitreal steroid injections.In order to reduce the risks,complications and frequent dosing of intravitreal steroids,intravitreal implants have been developed recently to provide sustained release of corticosteroids and reduce repeated intravitreal injections for the management of DME.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the effect of topical corticosteroid for treatment of moderate or severe dry eye. Methods: Sixty eyes of 30 patients with moderate or severe dry eye, who were not sensitive to artificial tears, ...Objective: To evaluate the effect of topical corticosteroid for treatment of moderate or severe dry eye. Methods: Sixty eyes of 30 patients with moderate or severe dry eye, who were not sensitive to artificial tears, were treated with 0.1% fluoro- metholone eye drops. Subjective symptom and objective tests were used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment before and after application of 0.1% fluorometholone eye drops for 1 week and 1 month. Side effects were also evaluated. Results: After 1 week of treatment, subjective symptoms were improved in all dry eye patients; objective tests were improved in all dry eye patients 1 month after treatment, and the difference was significant. Conclusion: Topical corticosteroid drops can rapidly and effectively relieve the symptoms and signs of moderate or severe dry eye.展开更多
Objective： The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the effect of corticosteroids on atrial fibrillation（AF） following catheter ablation. Methods： We searched Pub Med, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Regi...Objective： The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the effect of corticosteroids on atrial fibrillation（AF） following catheter ablation. Methods： We searched Pub Med, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for published articles describing the effect of corticosteroids in preventing AF recurrence after catheter ablation. Data on study and patient were extracted. Risk ratios（RRs） and 95% confidence intervals（CIs） were calculated by use of a random-effect model, and P values of 〈0.05 were considered significant. Results： Two randomized controlled trials（RCTs） and three cohort studies involving 846 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Within one month of catheter ablation, corticosteroid use was associated with a declined risk of recurrence of AF in RCT（RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.85, P=0.005）, but without significant effect in cohort studies（RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.30, P=0.94）. After three months of catheter ablation, corticosteroids did not have a significant effect in the prevention of late recurrence of AF in either RCT（RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.59, P=0.49） or cohort studies（RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.31, P=0.78）. Conclusions： Our meta-analysis suggested that periprocedural administration of corticosteroids of catheter ablation was associated with reduction of early but not late recurrence of AF.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a necrotizing inflammatory process caused by alcoholic liver injury. It carries a significant short-term mortality. The management of AH is challenging. Although corticosteroids...BACKGROUND: Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a necrotizing inflammatory process caused by alcoholic liver injury. It carries a significant short-term mortality. The management of AH is challenging. Although corticosteroids have been demonstrated to exert anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, their efficacy for the treatment of AH remains debatable. DATA SOURCES: A literature search was performed of MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink and Wiley InterScience using the key words 'alcoholic hepatitis', 'alcoholic liver disease', and 'corticosteroids'. The available data reported in the relevant literature were analyzed. RESULTS: More than 17 controlled trials and at least 13 meta-analyses have reported the efficacy of corticosteroids in the treatment of AH in the past 40 years. Many were poorly designed and used different inclusion/exclusion criteria, making it difficult to reach a consensus. In this review, we summarized all the controversial data in the past decade and analyzed the potential causes for the varying therapeutic effects of corticosteroids in AH. The focus of the controversy has changed from 'whether steroids are beneficial or harmful for AH patients' to 'how to accurately identify responders to steroids early and rationalize corticosteroid treatment'. An early response to glucocorticoids, as determined by calculating the Lille score after 7 days of treatment, has been shown to be a clinically useful indicator. Moreover, down-regulation of steroid sensitivity, risk of infection, and a rational therapeutic strategy of corticosteroids in AH patients are all crucial for therapeutic effect.CONCLUSIONS: An early and accurate determination of steroid sensitivity is important. Besides, we need to overcome the down-regulation of steroid sensitivity, reduce the infection risk and rationalize the therapeutic strategy of corticosteroids. A fresh perspective is needed on the use of corticosteroids in AH patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND: The use of corticosteroids in septic shock has been studied for many decades but yielded conflicting results. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of corticosteroids in ...BACKGROUND: The use of corticosteroids in septic shock has been studied for many decades but yielded conflicting results. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of corticosteroids in immunocompetent patients with septic shock.METHODS: Medline via Pub Med, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched from inception to March 2020. Two reviewers independently identified randomized controlled trials(RCTs) comparing corticosteroids with a control group for immunocompetent patients with septic shock. Data were abstracted and reported following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Intervention and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses(PRISMA) statement. The efficacy outcome included mortality and shock reversal. The safety outcomes were infection, gastrointestinal bleeding, and hyperglycemia.RESULTS: Nine RCTs with a total of 1,298 patients were included. Compared with the control group, corticosteroid group did not lower the short-term(28 or 30 days) mortality(risk ratio [RR] 0.95, 95% confidence interval(CI) 0.85 to 1.06, inconsistency [I2]=0%, trial sequential analysis [TSA]-adjusted CI 0.83 to 1.09, moderate-certainty evidence). Corticosteroids significantly shortened the time to shock reversal compared with the control group(mean difference [MD] –21.56 hours;95% CI –32.95 to –10.16, I2=0%;TSA-adjusted CI –33.33 to –9.78, moderate-certainty evidence). The corticosteroid treatment was associated with an increased risk of hyperglycemia but not the infection or gastrointestinal bleeding.CONCLUSIONS: The corticosteroid treatment is not associated with lower short-or longterm mortality compared with placebo in immunocompetent patients with septic shock. However, corticosteroids significantly shorten the time to shock reversal without increasing the risk of infection. The patient's immune status should also be considered during clinical treatment and clinical trials in future.展开更多
The treatment of choice for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is use of corticosteroids.Many randomized well designed studies have been reported from all over the world on the use of corticosteroids in the...The treatment of choice for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is use of corticosteroids.Many randomized well designed studies have been reported from all over the world on the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of AH.However,the data on the efficacy of corticosteroids in these patients have been conflicting.Initial meta-analyses also failed to show beneficial effects of corticosteroids.Based on individual data meta-analysis showing clear benefit of corticosteroids amongst patients with severe AH (modified discriminant function of 32 or more),led American College of Gastroenterology to recommend use of corticosteroids as the first line treatment option amongst patients with severe AH.However,corticosteroids are relatively contraindicated amongst patients with severe AH and coexistent sepsis,gastrointestinal bleeding,and acute pancreatitis.These patients may be candidates for second line treatment with pentoxifylline.Further,specific treatment of AH with corticosteroids far from satisfactory with as many as 40%-50% of patients failing to respond to steroids,thus classified as nonresponsive to steroids.The management of these patients is a continuing challenge for physicians.Better treatment modalities need to be developed for this group of patients in order to improve the outcome of patients with severe AH.This article describes at length the available trials on use of corticosteroids and pentoxifylline with their current status.Route of administration,dosage,adverse effects,and mechanisms of action of these two drugs are also discussed.Finally,an algorithm with clinical approach to management of patients who present with clinical syndrome of AH is described.展开更多
Pneumocystis pneumonia(PCP) is a life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients. It is relatively uncommon in patients with lung cancer. We report a case of PCP in a 59-year-old man with a past medical histo...Pneumocystis pneumonia(PCP) is a life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients. It is relatively uncommon in patients with lung cancer. We report a case of PCP in a 59-year-old man with a past medical history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treated with formoterol and a moderate daily dose of inhaled budesonide. He had also advanced stage non-small lung cancer treated with concurrent chemo-radiation with a cisplatin-etoposide containing regimen. The diagnosis of PCP was suspected based on the context of rapidly increasing dyspnea, lymphopenia and the imaging findings. Polymerase chain reaction testing on an induced sputum specimen was positive for Pneumocystis jirovecii. The patient was treated with oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and systemic corticotherapy and had showed clinical and radiological improvement. Six months after the PCP diagnosis, he developed a malignant pleural effusion and expired on hospice care. Through this case, we remind the importance of screening for PCP in lung cancer patients under chemotherapeutic regimens and with increasing dyspnea. In addition, we alert to the fact that long-term inhaled corticosteroids may be a risk factor for PCP in patients with lung cancer. Despite intensive treatment, the mortality of PCP remains high, hence the importance of chemoprophylaxis should be considered.展开更多
AIM To examine treatment decisions of gastroenterologists regarding the choice of prescribing 5-aminosalycilates(5ASA)with corticosteroids(CS)versus corticosteroids alone for patients with active ulcerative colitis(UC...AIM To examine treatment decisions of gastroenterologists regarding the choice of prescribing 5-aminosalycilates(5ASA)with corticosteroids(CS)versus corticosteroids alone for patients with active ulcerative colitis(UC).METHODS A cross-sectional questionnaire exploring physicians'attitude toward 5ASA+CS combination therapy vs CS alone was developed and validated.The questionnaire was distributed to gastroenterology experts in twelve countries in five continents.Respondents'agreement with stated treatment choices were assessed by standardized Likert scale.Background professional characteristics of respondents were analyzed for correlation with responses.RESULTS Six hundred and sixty-four questionnaires were distributed and 349 received(52.6%response rate).Of 340 eligible respondents,221(65%)would continue 5ASA in a patient hospitalized for intravenous CS treatment due to a moderate-severe UC flare,while 108(32%)would stop the 5ASA(P<0.001),and 11(3%)are undecided.Similarly,62%would continue 5ASA in an out-patient starting oral CS.However,only 140/340(41%)would proactively start 5ASA in a hospitalized patient not receiving 5ASA before admission.Most(94%)physicians consider the safety profile of 5ASA as very good.Only 52%consider them inexpensive,35%perceive them to be expensive and 12%are undecided.On multi-variable analysis,less years of practice and perception of a plausible additive mechanistic effect of 5ASA+CS were positively associated with the decision to continue 5ASA with CS.CONCLUSION Despite the absence of data supporting its benefit,most gastroenterologists endorse combination of 5ASA+CS for patients with active moderate-to-severe UC.Randomized controlled trials are needed to assess if 5ASA confer any benefit for these patients.展开更多
Background: Pneumonia is the most common cause of community-acquired infection requiring ICU admission. 60-87% of patients with severe community acquired pneumonia (CAP) admitted to the ICU develops respiratory failur...Background: Pneumonia is the most common cause of community-acquired infection requiring ICU admission. 60-87% of patients with severe community acquired pneumonia (CAP) admitted to the ICU develops respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation (MV). Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of adjunctive low dose hydrocortisone infusion treatment in Egyptian ICU patients with CAP. Methods: Hospitalized patients, clinically and radiologically diagnosed with CAP, were randomized to receive hydrocortisone 12.5 mg/h IV infusion for 7 days or placebo, along with antibiotics. The end-points of the study were improvement in PaO2:FIO2 (PaO2:FIO2 > 300 or ≥100 increase from study entry) and SOFA score by study day 8 and the development of delayed septic shock. Results: 80 patients were recruited, 40 of them received hydrocortisone and the remaining 40 received placebo. By study day 8, hydrocortisone treated patients showed a significant improvement in PaO2:FIO2 and chest radiograph score, and a significant reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and delayed septic shock compared to the control group. Hydrocortisone treatment was associated with a significant reduction in the duration of MV. However, hydrocortisone infusion did not show significant difference in the ICU mortality. Conclusions: adjunctive 7-day course of low dose hydrocortisone IV in patients with CAP hastens recovery of pneumonia and prevents the development of sepsis related complications with a significant reduction in duration of the mechanical ventilation.展开更多
It is well known that the safety and efficacy profile of an inhaled cortocosteroid(ICS) is influenced by the pharmacokinetic properties and associated pharmacodynamic effects of the drug. Freely circulating,protein un...It is well known that the safety and efficacy profile of an inhaled cortocosteroid(ICS) is influenced by the pharmacokinetic properties and associated pharmacodynamic effects of the drug. Freely circulating,protein unbound, and active ICS can cause systemic adverse effects. Therefore, a detailed investigation of drug-protein interaction could be of great interest to understand the pharmacokinetic behaviour of corticosteroids and for the design of new analogues with effective pharmacological properties. In the present work, the interaction between some corticosteroids and human serum albumin(HSA) has been studied by spectroscopic approaches. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed that all the investigated corticosteroids can bind to HSA forming a protein-drug complex. The intrinsic fluorescence of HSA was quenched by all the investigated drugs, which was rationalized in terms of a static quenching mechanism. The thermodynamic parameters determined by the Van't Hoff analysis of the binding constants(negative ΔH and ΔS values) clearly indicate thathydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces play a major role in the binding process between albumin and betamethasone, flunisolide and prednisolone, while hydrophobic forces may play a major role in stabilizing albumin-triamcinolone complexes.展开更多
Influenza pneumonia is associated with high number of severe cases requiring hospital and intensive care unit(ICU)admissions with high mortality.Systemic steroids are proposed as a valid therapeutic option even though...Influenza pneumonia is associated with high number of severe cases requiring hospital and intensive care unit(ICU)admissions with high mortality.Systemic steroids are proposed as a valid therapeutic option even though its effects are still controversial.Heterogeneity of published data regarding study design,population demographics,severity of illness,dosing,type and timing of corticosteroids administered constitute an important limitation for drawing robust conclusions.However,it is reasonable to admit that,as it was not found any advantage of corticosteroid therapy in so diverse conditions,such beneficial effects do not exist at all.Its administration is likely to increase overall mortality and such trend is consistent regardless of the quality as well as the sample size of studies.Moreover it was shown that corticosteroids might be associated with higher incidence of hospital-acquired pneumonia and longer duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay.Finally,it is reasonable to conclude that corticosteroids failed to demonstrate any beneficial effects in the treatment of patients with severe influenza infection.Thus its current use in s evere influenza pneumonia should be restricted to very selected cases and in the setting of clinical trials.展开更多
AIM To determine whether infection in patients with acute severe alcoholic hepatitis(AAH) treated with corticosteroids is associated with increased mortality.METHODS Consecutive patients with AAH were treated with ste...AIM To determine whether infection in patients with acute severe alcoholic hepatitis(AAH) treated with corticosteroids is associated with increased mortality.METHODS Consecutive patients with AAH were treated with steroids and recruited to the study. Clinically relevant infections(body temperature > 38 ℃ or < 36 ℃ for more than 4 h, ascitic neutrophil count > 0.25 ×109/L, consolidation on chest radiograph or clinically relevant positive microbiological culture of bodily fluid) were recorded prospectively. Clinical and laboratory parameters were recorded and survival at 90 d and 6 mo was determined. Univariate analysis of factors associated with 90-d mortality was performed and significant variables included in a multivariate analysis.RESULTS Seventy-two patients were included in the final analysis(mean age 47.9 years, 26% female, mean discriminant function 53.0). Overall mortality in the group occurred in 15(21%), 23(32%) and 31(43%) at day 28, day 90 and 1 year respectively. 36(50%) had a clinically relevant infection during their hospitalisation(23 after initiation of steroids). The median time to development of incident infection after commencement of steroids was 10 d. The commonest site of infection was ascites(31%) and bacteraemia(31%) followed by urinary tract(19%) and respiratory tract(8%). Forty-one separate organisms were isolated in 33 patients; the most frequent genus was Escherichia(22%) and Enterococcus(20%). Infection was not associated with 90-d or 1 year mortality but was associated with higher creatinine, model for end-stage liver disease and Lille score. Baseline urea was the only independent predictor of 90-d mortality.CONCLUSION Clinically relevant infections are common in patients with AAH but are not associated with increased 90-d or 1 year mortality.展开更多
Eosinophilic esophagitis(EoE)is an emerging chronic local immune-mediated disease of the esophagus.Beside proton pump inhibitors and food-restrictiondiets swallowed topical corticosteroids(STC)can be offered as a firs...Eosinophilic esophagitis(EoE)is an emerging chronic local immune-mediated disease of the esophagus.Beside proton pump inhibitors and food-restrictiondiets swallowed topical corticosteroids(STC)can be offered as a first line therapy according to current guidelines.This review describes the background and practical management of STCs in EoE.So far,mainly asthma inhalers containing either budesonide or fluticasone have been administered to the esophagus by swallowing these medications“off label”.Recently esophagus-targeted formulations of topical steroids have been developed showing clinicopathological response rates up to 85%-an orodispersible tablet of budesonide has been approved as the first“in label”medication for EoE in Europe in June 2018.Whereas it was shown that disease remission induction of EoE by STCs is highly effective,there is still a lack of data regarding long-term and maintenance therapy.However,current studies on STC maintenance therapy add some movement into the game.展开更多
Acute and recurring pericarditis are frequently encountered clinical entities.Given that severe complications such as tamponade and constrictive pericarditis occur rarely,the majority of patients suffering from acute ...Acute and recurring pericarditis are frequently encountered clinical entities.Given that severe complications such as tamponade and constrictive pericarditis occur rarely,the majority of patients suffering from acute pericarditis will have a benign clinical course.However,pericarditis recurrence,with its painful symptoms,is frequent.In effect,recent studies have demonstrated a beneficial role of colchicine in preventing recurrence,while also suggesting an increase in recurrences with the use of corticosteroids,the traditional first-line agent.展开更多
Objective: To study whether there is a relation between the application of corticosteroids and occurrence of postmenopausal bleeding. Also we want to determine whether corticosteroids can cause an irregularity in a pr...Objective: To study whether there is a relation between the application of corticosteroids and occurrence of postmenopausal bleeding. Also we want to determine whether corticosteroids can cause an irregularity in a previously regular menstruation cycle. Design and Setting: Prospective cohort study in the department of anesthesiology. Patients: 209 women who received a single dosage of corticosteroids as treatment for pain. Interventions: None, observational cohort study;all women received standard care. Main outcome measures: Postmenopausal blood loss or disruption of menstruation cycle. Result: Postmenopausal blood loss or disruption of menstruation cycle were both more common 6 weeks after administration of corticosteroids, but were sometimes also reported 2 weeks after administration of corticosteroids. Conclusion: After administration of corticosteroids in a postmenopausal woman an episode of menstruation like bleeding can be expected. This is probably due to a transient drop of androstenedione. In premenopausal women a transient change in menstruation cycle can be observed.展开更多
In spite of initial intravenous immunoglobulin(IVIG) treatment, a significant number of patients are unresponsive to it and are at a higher risk for coronary artery lesions. Corticosteroids have been used as a seconda...In spite of initial intravenous immunoglobulin(IVIG) treatment, a significant number of patients are unresponsive to it and are at a higher risk for coronary artery lesions. Corticosteroids have been used as a secondary drug or used in combination with IVIG. Three options of using corticosteroids for the treatment of patients during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, havebeen considered. The first is their use exclusively for patients unresponsive to IVIG treatment. The second is their use in combination with IVIG as the routine first line therapy for all patients. The last is the use in the combination as the first line therapy for selected patients at a high risk being unresponsive to initial IVIG. However, it is uncertain that the corticosteroids as the second line treatment are better than the additional IVIG in patients unresponsive to initial IVIG. The combination of corticosteroids and IVIG as the routine first line therapy also have not enough evidences. The last option of using corticosteroids- the combination of corticosteroids and IVIG in patients at high risk of unresponsiveness, is a properly reasonable treatment strategy. However, there have been no globally standardized predictive models for the unresponsiveness to initial IVIG treatment. Therefore, future investigations to determine the best predictive model are necessary.展开更多
基金Supported by Non-profit Joint Stock Company“S.D.Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University”,Almaty,Kazakhstan。
文摘BACKGROUND For over half a century,the administration of maternal corticosteroids before anticipated preterm birth has been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for enhancing neonatal outcomes,particularly in preventing respiratory distress syndrome.Ongoing research on antenatal corticosteroids(ACS)is continuously refining the evidence regarding their efficacy and potential side effects,which may alter the application of this treatment.Recent findings indicate that in resource-limited settings,the effectiveness of ACS is contingent upon meeting specific conditions,including providing adequate medical support for preterm newborns.Future studies are expected to concentrate on developing evidence-based strategies to safely enhance ACS utilization in low-and middle-income countries.AIM To analyze the clinical effectiveness of antenatal corticosteroids in improving outcomes for preterm newborns in a tertiary care hospital setting in Kazakhstan,following current World Health Organization guidelines.METHODS This study employs a comparative retrospective cohort design to analyze single-center clinical data collected from January 2022 to February 2024.A total of 152 medical records of preterm newborns with gestational ages between 24 and 34 weeks were reviewed,focusing on the completeness of the ACS received.Quantitative variables are presented as means with standard deviations,while frequency analysis of qualitative indicators was performed using Pearson'sχ^(2) test(χ^(2))and Fisher's exact test.If statistical significance was identified,pairwise comparisons between the three observation groups were conducted using the Bonferroni correction.RESULTS The obtained data indicate that the complete implementation of antenatal steroid prophylaxis(ASP)improves neonatal outcomes,particularly by reducing the frequency of birth asphyxia(P=0.002),the need for primary resuscitation(P=0.002),the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure(P=0.022),and the need for surfactant replacement therapy(P=0.038)compared to groups with incomplete or no ASP.Furthermore,complete ASP contributed to a decrease in morbidity among preterm newborns(e.g.,respiratory distress syndrome,intrauterine pneumonia,cerebral ischemia,bronchopulmonary dysplasia,etc.),improved Apgar scores,and reduced the need for re-intubation and the frequency of mechanical ventilation.However,it was associated with an increased incidence of uterine atony in postpartum women(P=0.0095).CONCLUSION In a tertiary hospital setting,the implementation of ACS therapy for pregnancies between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation at high risk for preterm birth significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal complications and related interventions.This,in turn,contributes to better outcomes for this cohort of children.However,the impact of ACS on maternal outcomes requires further thorough investigation.
基金Supported by Hepatology Training Grant from the Spanish Association for The Study of Liver(AEEH-Asociación Española para el Estudio del Hígado)in 2023,No.G28551570(to Quiñones-Calvo M).
文摘BACKGROUND Severe alcoholic hepatitis(SAH)carries a 90-day mortality rate approaching 50%.Management includes corticosteroids,nutritional support,and early liver transplantation in selected cases.However,the mid-term impact of available therapies remains unclear.This systematic review provides a critical evaluation of treatments for SAH,specifically focusing on survival or mortality at 90 days as an essential window that captures short-and mid-term outcomes.The 90-day window is clinically significant,as it reflects the remission of systemic inflam-mation,early liver recovery,and minimizes confounding long-term behaviors such as alcohol relapse.AIM To review the effect of different treatments for SAH on survival and mortality at 90 days.METHODS A systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE(last updated March 2025)was performed without language restrictions,focusing on studies published in the last decade.Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by at least two reviewers.Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and Risk-of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tools.Due to heterogeneity in study designs and interventions,a meta-analysis was not feasible.A qualitative synthesis was conducted using narrative summaries and evidence tables.RESULTS Searches in the databases yielded 645 citations in PubMed and 1516 in EMBASE.Of these 2161 studies,618 were duplicates and therefore removed.A total of eight studies were included in qualitative synthesis.Among the included publications,six were randomized control trials(RCT)and two were retrospective cohort studies.These studies evaluated 90-day mortality or survival in SAH patients treated with corticosteroids(n=2),pentoxifylline(n=1),anakinra plus zinc(n=2),granulocyte colony-stimulating factor(n=1),amoxicillin-clavulanate(n=1),fecal microbiota transplantation(n=1)or extracorporeal liver assist device(n=1).While most studies were conducted in Western countries,two had a global scope.CONCLUSION Steroids remain the first-line therapy for SAH despite reports of them not having any 90-day survival benefit.These results highlight the need for multicenter,biomarker-guided RCTs evaluating emerging treatments to improve mid-term survival in SAH.
文摘BACKGROUND Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome(PRES)is a complex neurological disorder characterized by symptoms such as headaches,seizures,confusion,and visual disturbances.The pathophysiology of PRES involves endothelial dysfunction,disrupted cerebral autoregulation,and resulting vasogenic edema.Hypertension and other factors that alter cerebral autoregulation are critical in its development.Corticosteroids,widely used for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties,play a controversial role in PRES.AIM To elucidate the dual role of corticosteroids in the context of PRES by critically evaluating the existing literature.Specifically,it seeks to assess the results of PRES induced by corticosteroid therapy and the efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in the treatment of PRES.By synthesizing case reports and series,this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms,clinical presentations,and management strategies associated with corticosteroid-related PRES.METHODS The review was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines.The databases searched included Science Direct,PubMed,and Hinari.The search strategy encompassed terms related to corticosteroids and PRES.Studies were included if they were peer-reviewed articles examining corticosteroids in PRES,excluding non-English publications,reviews,and editorials.Data on patient demographics,clinical characteristics,imaging findings,corticosteroid regimens,and outcomes were extracted.The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for case reports.RESULTS A total of 56 cases of PRES(66.1%women,33.9%men)potentially induced by corticosteroids and 14 cases in which corticosteroids were used to treat PRES were identified.Cases of PRES reportedly caused by corticosteroids showed a mean age of approximately 25.2 years,with seizures,headaches,hypertension,and visual disturbances being common clinical sequelae.Magnetic resonance findings typically revealed vasogenic edema in the bilateral parieto-occipital lobes.High-dose or prolonged corticosteroid therapy was a significant risk factor.On the contrary,in the treatment cases,corticosteroids were associated with positive outcomes,including resolution of vasogenic edema and stabilization of symptoms,particularly in patients with underlying inflammatory or autoimmune diseases.CONCLUSION Corticosteroids have a dual role in PRES,capable of both inducing and treating the condition.The current body of literature suggests that corticosteroids may play a greater role as a precipitating agent of PRES rather than treating.Corticosteroids may induce PRES through hypertension and subsequent increased cerebral blood flow and loss of autoregulation.Corticosteroids may aid in the management of PRES:(1)Enhancing endothelial stability;(2)Antiinflammatory properties;and(3)Improving blood-brain barrier integrity.Mechanisms which may reduce or mitigate vasogenic edema formation.
文摘Introduction: The severity of Sars-Cov-2 infection is associated with the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The progression to ARDS appears to be driven by a major inflammatory mechanism potentially sensitive to corticosteroids. Observation: This article describes the case of an elderly patient was admitted to emergency departments for intense asthenia, accompanied by motor diarrhoea, dyspnoea with desaturation in ambient air, in a context of strong suspicion of infection linked to COVID-19. The article also reviews the existing literature on the diagnosis and treatment of this severe form of the disease. Conclusion: Corticosteroids, and in particular dexamethasone, have been shown to be effective in the management of patients with COVID-19, an oxygen-releasing disease.
文摘Diabetic macular edema(DME)is a common cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients.It is caused by an increase in the permeability of the perifoveal capillaries and a disruption of the blood retinal-barrier.The pathogenesis of DME is multifactorial.Several therapeutic modalities have been proposed for the treatment of DME.Corticosteroid treatments have emerged as an alternative therapy for persistent DME or refractory to conventional laser photocoagulation and other modalities,due to anti-inflammatory,anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and anti-proliferative effects.Many studies have demonstrated the beneficial therapeutic effect of corticosteroids with improvement to both retinal thickness and visual acuity in short-term on the treatment of DME.Peribulbar and intravitreal injections have been used to deliver steroids for DME with frequent injections due to the chronic and recurrent nature of the disease.Steroid-related side effects include elevated intraocular pressure,cataract,and injection related complications such as endophthalmitis,vitreous hemorrhage,and retinal detachment particularly with intravitreal steroid injections.In order to reduce the risks,complications and frequent dosing of intravitreal steroids,intravitreal implants have been developed recently to provide sustained release of corticosteroids and reduce repeated intravitreal injections for the management of DME.
文摘Objective: To evaluate the effect of topical corticosteroid for treatment of moderate or severe dry eye. Methods: Sixty eyes of 30 patients with moderate or severe dry eye, who were not sensitive to artificial tears, were treated with 0.1% fluoro- metholone eye drops. Subjective symptom and objective tests were used to evaluate the efficacy of treatment before and after application of 0.1% fluorometholone eye drops for 1 week and 1 month. Side effects were also evaluated. Results: After 1 week of treatment, subjective symptoms were improved in all dry eye patients; objective tests were improved in all dry eye patients 1 month after treatment, and the difference was significant. Conclusion: Topical corticosteroid drops can rapidly and effectively relieve the symptoms and signs of moderate or severe dry eye.
文摘Objective： The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the effect of corticosteroids on atrial fibrillation（AF） following catheter ablation. Methods： We searched Pub Med, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for published articles describing the effect of corticosteroids in preventing AF recurrence after catheter ablation. Data on study and patient were extracted. Risk ratios（RRs） and 95% confidence intervals（CIs） were calculated by use of a random-effect model, and P values of 〈0.05 were considered significant. Results： Two randomized controlled trials（RCTs） and three cohort studies involving 846 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Within one month of catheter ablation, corticosteroid use was associated with a declined risk of recurrence of AF in RCT（RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.85, P=0.005）, but without significant effect in cohort studies（RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.30, P=0.94）. After three months of catheter ablation, corticosteroids did not have a significant effect in the prevention of late recurrence of AF in either RCT（RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.59, P=0.49） or cohort studies（RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.31, P=0.78）. Conclusions： Our meta-analysis suggested that periprocedural administration of corticosteroids of catheter ablation was associated with reduction of early but not late recurrence of AF.
基金supported by a grant from the General Project Foundation of the Education Department of Liaoning Province (2009A809)
文摘BACKGROUND: Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is a necrotizing inflammatory process caused by alcoholic liver injury. It carries a significant short-term mortality. The management of AH is challenging. Although corticosteroids have been demonstrated to exert anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, their efficacy for the treatment of AH remains debatable. DATA SOURCES: A literature search was performed of MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink and Wiley InterScience using the key words 'alcoholic hepatitis', 'alcoholic liver disease', and 'corticosteroids'. The available data reported in the relevant literature were analyzed. RESULTS: More than 17 controlled trials and at least 13 meta-analyses have reported the efficacy of corticosteroids in the treatment of AH in the past 40 years. Many were poorly designed and used different inclusion/exclusion criteria, making it difficult to reach a consensus. In this review, we summarized all the controversial data in the past decade and analyzed the potential causes for the varying therapeutic effects of corticosteroids in AH. The focus of the controversy has changed from 'whether steroids are beneficial or harmful for AH patients' to 'how to accurately identify responders to steroids early and rationalize corticosteroid treatment'. An early response to glucocorticoids, as determined by calculating the Lille score after 7 days of treatment, has been shown to be a clinically useful indicator. Moreover, down-regulation of steroid sensitivity, risk of infection, and a rational therapeutic strategy of corticosteroids in AH patients are all crucial for therapeutic effect.CONCLUSIONS: An early and accurate determination of steroid sensitivity is important. Besides, we need to overcome the down-regulation of steroid sensitivity, reduce the infection risk and rationalize the therapeutic strategy of corticosteroids. A fresh perspective is needed on the use of corticosteroids in AH patients.
基金supported by the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(CIFMS)(2020-I2M-C&T-B-014)CAMS Teaching Reform Research Fund(2018zlgc0101)CAMS Online Open Course Construction Fund(J2009022861)。
文摘BACKGROUND: The use of corticosteroids in septic shock has been studied for many decades but yielded conflicting results. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and the safety of corticosteroids in immunocompetent patients with septic shock.METHODS: Medline via Pub Med, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials(CENTRAL) in the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched from inception to March 2020. Two reviewers independently identified randomized controlled trials(RCTs) comparing corticosteroids with a control group for immunocompetent patients with septic shock. Data were abstracted and reported following the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Intervention and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses(PRISMA) statement. The efficacy outcome included mortality and shock reversal. The safety outcomes were infection, gastrointestinal bleeding, and hyperglycemia.RESULTS: Nine RCTs with a total of 1,298 patients were included. Compared with the control group, corticosteroid group did not lower the short-term(28 or 30 days) mortality(risk ratio [RR] 0.95, 95% confidence interval(CI) 0.85 to 1.06, inconsistency [I2]=0%, trial sequential analysis [TSA]-adjusted CI 0.83 to 1.09, moderate-certainty evidence). Corticosteroids significantly shortened the time to shock reversal compared with the control group(mean difference [MD] –21.56 hours;95% CI –32.95 to –10.16, I2=0%;TSA-adjusted CI –33.33 to –9.78, moderate-certainty evidence). The corticosteroid treatment was associated with an increased risk of hyperglycemia but not the infection or gastrointestinal bleeding.CONCLUSIONS: The corticosteroid treatment is not associated with lower short-or longterm mortality compared with placebo in immunocompetent patients with septic shock. However, corticosteroids significantly shorten the time to shock reversal without increasing the risk of infection. The patient's immune status should also be considered during clinical treatment and clinical trials in future.
文摘The treatment of choice for patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is use of corticosteroids.Many randomized well designed studies have been reported from all over the world on the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of AH.However,the data on the efficacy of corticosteroids in these patients have been conflicting.Initial meta-analyses also failed to show beneficial effects of corticosteroids.Based on individual data meta-analysis showing clear benefit of corticosteroids amongst patients with severe AH (modified discriminant function of 32 or more),led American College of Gastroenterology to recommend use of corticosteroids as the first line treatment option amongst patients with severe AH.However,corticosteroids are relatively contraindicated amongst patients with severe AH and coexistent sepsis,gastrointestinal bleeding,and acute pancreatitis.These patients may be candidates for second line treatment with pentoxifylline.Further,specific treatment of AH with corticosteroids far from satisfactory with as many as 40%-50% of patients failing to respond to steroids,thus classified as nonresponsive to steroids.The management of these patients is a continuing challenge for physicians.Better treatment modalities need to be developed for this group of patients in order to improve the outcome of patients with severe AH.This article describes at length the available trials on use of corticosteroids and pentoxifylline with their current status.Route of administration,dosage,adverse effects,and mechanisms of action of these two drugs are also discussed.Finally,an algorithm with clinical approach to management of patients who present with clinical syndrome of AH is described.
文摘Pneumocystis pneumonia(PCP) is a life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients. It is relatively uncommon in patients with lung cancer. We report a case of PCP in a 59-year-old man with a past medical history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treated with formoterol and a moderate daily dose of inhaled budesonide. He had also advanced stage non-small lung cancer treated with concurrent chemo-radiation with a cisplatin-etoposide containing regimen. The diagnosis of PCP was suspected based on the context of rapidly increasing dyspnea, lymphopenia and the imaging findings. Polymerase chain reaction testing on an induced sputum specimen was positive for Pneumocystis jirovecii. The patient was treated with oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and systemic corticotherapy and had showed clinical and radiological improvement. Six months after the PCP diagnosis, he developed a malignant pleural effusion and expired on hospice care. Through this case, we remind the importance of screening for PCP in lung cancer patients under chemotherapeutic regimens and with increasing dyspnea. In addition, we alert to the fact that long-term inhaled corticosteroids may be a risk factor for PCP in patients with lung cancer. Despite intensive treatment, the mortality of PCP remains high, hence the importance of chemoprophylaxis should be considered.
文摘AIM To examine treatment decisions of gastroenterologists regarding the choice of prescribing 5-aminosalycilates(5ASA)with corticosteroids(CS)versus corticosteroids alone for patients with active ulcerative colitis(UC).METHODS A cross-sectional questionnaire exploring physicians'attitude toward 5ASA+CS combination therapy vs CS alone was developed and validated.The questionnaire was distributed to gastroenterology experts in twelve countries in five continents.Respondents'agreement with stated treatment choices were assessed by standardized Likert scale.Background professional characteristics of respondents were analyzed for correlation with responses.RESULTS Six hundred and sixty-four questionnaires were distributed and 349 received(52.6%response rate).Of 340 eligible respondents,221(65%)would continue 5ASA in a patient hospitalized for intravenous CS treatment due to a moderate-severe UC flare,while 108(32%)would stop the 5ASA(P<0.001),and 11(3%)are undecided.Similarly,62%would continue 5ASA in an out-patient starting oral CS.However,only 140/340(41%)would proactively start 5ASA in a hospitalized patient not receiving 5ASA before admission.Most(94%)physicians consider the safety profile of 5ASA as very good.Only 52%consider them inexpensive,35%perceive them to be expensive and 12%are undecided.On multi-variable analysis,less years of practice and perception of a plausible additive mechanistic effect of 5ASA+CS were positively associated with the decision to continue 5ASA with CS.CONCLUSION Despite the absence of data supporting its benefit,most gastroenterologists endorse combination of 5ASA+CS for patients with active moderate-to-severe UC.Randomized controlled trials are needed to assess if 5ASA confer any benefit for these patients.
文摘Background: Pneumonia is the most common cause of community-acquired infection requiring ICU admission. 60-87% of patients with severe community acquired pneumonia (CAP) admitted to the ICU develops respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation (MV). Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of adjunctive low dose hydrocortisone infusion treatment in Egyptian ICU patients with CAP. Methods: Hospitalized patients, clinically and radiologically diagnosed with CAP, were randomized to receive hydrocortisone 12.5 mg/h IV infusion for 7 days or placebo, along with antibiotics. The end-points of the study were improvement in PaO2:FIO2 (PaO2:FIO2 > 300 or ≥100 increase from study entry) and SOFA score by study day 8 and the development of delayed septic shock. Results: 80 patients were recruited, 40 of them received hydrocortisone and the remaining 40 received placebo. By study day 8, hydrocortisone treated patients showed a significant improvement in PaO2:FIO2 and chest radiograph score, and a significant reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and delayed septic shock compared to the control group. Hydrocortisone treatment was associated with a significant reduction in the duration of MV. However, hydrocortisone infusion did not show significant difference in the ICU mortality. Conclusions: adjunctive 7-day course of low dose hydrocortisone IV in patients with CAP hastens recovery of pneumonia and prevents the development of sepsis related complications with a significant reduction in duration of the mechanical ventilation.
基金supported by a grant from the University of Torino(Ricerca Locale ex-60%,Bando 2015)
文摘It is well known that the safety and efficacy profile of an inhaled cortocosteroid(ICS) is influenced by the pharmacokinetic properties and associated pharmacodynamic effects of the drug. Freely circulating,protein unbound, and active ICS can cause systemic adverse effects. Therefore, a detailed investigation of drug-protein interaction could be of great interest to understand the pharmacokinetic behaviour of corticosteroids and for the design of new analogues with effective pharmacological properties. In the present work, the interaction between some corticosteroids and human serum albumin(HSA) has been studied by spectroscopic approaches. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed that all the investigated corticosteroids can bind to HSA forming a protein-drug complex. The intrinsic fluorescence of HSA was quenched by all the investigated drugs, which was rationalized in terms of a static quenching mechanism. The thermodynamic parameters determined by the Van't Hoff analysis of the binding constants(negative ΔH and ΔS values) clearly indicate thathydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces play a major role in the binding process between albumin and betamethasone, flunisolide and prednisolone, while hydrophobic forces may play a major role in stabilizing albumin-triamcinolone complexes.
文摘Influenza pneumonia is associated with high number of severe cases requiring hospital and intensive care unit(ICU)admissions with high mortality.Systemic steroids are proposed as a valid therapeutic option even though its effects are still controversial.Heterogeneity of published data regarding study design,population demographics,severity of illness,dosing,type and timing of corticosteroids administered constitute an important limitation for drawing robust conclusions.However,it is reasonable to admit that,as it was not found any advantage of corticosteroid therapy in so diverse conditions,such beneficial effects do not exist at all.Its administration is likely to increase overall mortality and such trend is consistent regardless of the quality as well as the sample size of studies.Moreover it was shown that corticosteroids might be associated with higher incidence of hospital-acquired pneumonia and longer duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay.Finally,it is reasonable to conclude that corticosteroids failed to demonstrate any beneficial effects in the treatment of patients with severe influenza infection.Thus its current use in s evere influenza pneumonia should be restricted to very selected cases and in the setting of clinical trials.
文摘AIM To determine whether infection in patients with acute severe alcoholic hepatitis(AAH) treated with corticosteroids is associated with increased mortality.METHODS Consecutive patients with AAH were treated with steroids and recruited to the study. Clinically relevant infections(body temperature > 38 ℃ or < 36 ℃ for more than 4 h, ascitic neutrophil count > 0.25 ×109/L, consolidation on chest radiograph or clinically relevant positive microbiological culture of bodily fluid) were recorded prospectively. Clinical and laboratory parameters were recorded and survival at 90 d and 6 mo was determined. Univariate analysis of factors associated with 90-d mortality was performed and significant variables included in a multivariate analysis.RESULTS Seventy-two patients were included in the final analysis(mean age 47.9 years, 26% female, mean discriminant function 53.0). Overall mortality in the group occurred in 15(21%), 23(32%) and 31(43%) at day 28, day 90 and 1 year respectively. 36(50%) had a clinically relevant infection during their hospitalisation(23 after initiation of steroids). The median time to development of incident infection after commencement of steroids was 10 d. The commonest site of infection was ascites(31%) and bacteraemia(31%) followed by urinary tract(19%) and respiratory tract(8%). Forty-one separate organisms were isolated in 33 patients; the most frequent genus was Escherichia(22%) and Enterococcus(20%). Infection was not associated with 90-d or 1 year mortality but was associated with higher creatinine, model for end-stage liver disease and Lille score. Baseline urea was the only independent predictor of 90-d mortality.CONCLUSION Clinically relevant infections are common in patients with AAH but are not associated with increased 90-d or 1 year mortality.
文摘Eosinophilic esophagitis(EoE)is an emerging chronic local immune-mediated disease of the esophagus.Beside proton pump inhibitors and food-restrictiondiets swallowed topical corticosteroids(STC)can be offered as a first line therapy according to current guidelines.This review describes the background and practical management of STCs in EoE.So far,mainly asthma inhalers containing either budesonide or fluticasone have been administered to the esophagus by swallowing these medications“off label”.Recently esophagus-targeted formulations of topical steroids have been developed showing clinicopathological response rates up to 85%-an orodispersible tablet of budesonide has been approved as the first“in label”medication for EoE in Europe in June 2018.Whereas it was shown that disease remission induction of EoE by STCs is highly effective,there is still a lack of data regarding long-term and maintenance therapy.However,current studies on STC maintenance therapy add some movement into the game.
文摘Acute and recurring pericarditis are frequently encountered clinical entities.Given that severe complications such as tamponade and constrictive pericarditis occur rarely,the majority of patients suffering from acute pericarditis will have a benign clinical course.However,pericarditis recurrence,with its painful symptoms,is frequent.In effect,recent studies have demonstrated a beneficial role of colchicine in preventing recurrence,while also suggesting an increase in recurrences with the use of corticosteroids,the traditional first-line agent.
文摘Objective: To study whether there is a relation between the application of corticosteroids and occurrence of postmenopausal bleeding. Also we want to determine whether corticosteroids can cause an irregularity in a previously regular menstruation cycle. Design and Setting: Prospective cohort study in the department of anesthesiology. Patients: 209 women who received a single dosage of corticosteroids as treatment for pain. Interventions: None, observational cohort study;all women received standard care. Main outcome measures: Postmenopausal blood loss or disruption of menstruation cycle. Result: Postmenopausal blood loss or disruption of menstruation cycle were both more common 6 weeks after administration of corticosteroids, but were sometimes also reported 2 weeks after administration of corticosteroids. Conclusion: After administration of corticosteroids in a postmenopausal woman an episode of menstruation like bleeding can be expected. This is probably due to a transient drop of androstenedione. In premenopausal women a transient change in menstruation cycle can be observed.
文摘In spite of initial intravenous immunoglobulin(IVIG) treatment, a significant number of patients are unresponsive to it and are at a higher risk for coronary artery lesions. Corticosteroids have been used as a secondary drug or used in combination with IVIG. Three options of using corticosteroids for the treatment of patients during the acute phase of Kawasaki disease, havebeen considered. The first is their use exclusively for patients unresponsive to IVIG treatment. The second is their use in combination with IVIG as the routine first line therapy for all patients. The last is the use in the combination as the first line therapy for selected patients at a high risk being unresponsive to initial IVIG. However, it is uncertain that the corticosteroids as the second line treatment are better than the additional IVIG in patients unresponsive to initial IVIG. The combination of corticosteroids and IVIG as the routine first line therapy also have not enough evidences. The last option of using corticosteroids- the combination of corticosteroids and IVIG in patients at high risk of unresponsiveness, is a properly reasonable treatment strategy. However, there have been no globally standardized predictive models for the unresponsiveness to initial IVIG treatment. Therefore, future investigations to determine the best predictive model are necessary.
