[Indications for corticosteroids in gastroenterology]

Since the discovery of anti- inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties of glucocorticoids in the late 40's, these drugs have been a cornerstone in the treatment of a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, being one of the most prescribed drugs in spite of their side effects occurring in up to 80% of patients treated. In Gastroenterology, as in other medical specialties, glucocorticoids are a widely used tool for the treatment of various diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver, bile ducts and pancreas, making it necessary to establish when and in which patients are indicated, as well as the glucocorticoid type, dose, route of administration and duration of treatment, taking into account that the long-term use without adequate control produces complications that may outweigh their beneficial effects.