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[Functional manifestations associated to corticosteroid therapy among the elderly]
C Vanhaecke Collard1, M Dramé, J-L Novella
1Service de médecine interne et gérontologie clinique, hôpital Maison-Blanche, CHU de Reims, 45, avenue Cognacq-Jay, 51092 Reims cedex, France. cvanhaecke-collard@chu-reims.fr
La Revue De Medecine Interne
|May 9, 2012
Summary
Corticosteroid therapy in elderly patients over 75 is linked to more falls, fractures, and muscle loss. Preventive measures were more frequently prescribed to these patients, highlighting the need for comprehensive geriatric care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Research
Context:
- Corticosteroid therapy is common in elderly patients.
- This population is frail and susceptible to adverse effects.
- Understanding associated functional changes and preventive strategies is crucial.
Purpose:
- To describe functional manifestations associated with corticosteroid therapy in patients over 75.
- To document preventive measures prescribed to this demographic.
Summary:
- A prospective, multi-centre observational study compared 50 elderly patients (over 75) on long-term corticosteroids with 100 matched controls.
- Exposed patients showed higher prevalence of falls, osteoarticular complications, amyotrophy, fractures, skin issues, and cataracts.
- Preventive measures like calcium/vitamin supplements, anti-osteoporosis drugs, and gastroprotectants were more common in the corticosteroid group.
Impact:
- Functional manifestations of corticosteroid therapy are frequent in the elderly.
- These complications can have severe consequences in frail older adults.
- Emphasizes the importance of vigilant prescription of preventive measures within comprehensive geriatric care.
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