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Steroid-induced diabetes in rheumatologic patients
Theodoros P Angelopoulos1, Nikolaos K Tentolouris, George K Bertsias
1Rheumatology-Clinical Immunology Unit, Institute for Biomedical Research of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece. angelopoulos_theodoros@yahoo.gr.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|October 23, 2013
Summary
Glucocorticoids effectively reduce inflammation but can cause steroid-induced diabetes in 10-20% of patients due to insulin resistance. This review guides monitoring and managing this common side effect.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Glucocorticoids are essential for managing inflammatory and autoimmune rheumatologic diseases.
- Long-term or high-dose glucocorticoid use is linked to significant side effects.
- Steroid-induced hyperglycemia or diabetes, affecting 10-20% of patients, is a prevalent concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a practical guide for monitoring patients initiating glucocorticoid therapy.
- To outline methods for detecting steroid-induced hyperglycemia or diabetes.
- To offer strategies for managing glucocorticoid-induced glycemic complications.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes current literature on glucocorticoid use and side effects.
- It focuses on the pathophysiology of steroid-induced hyperglycemia, primarily insulin resistance.
- Clinical monitoring and management guidelines are discussed.
Main Results:
- Glucocorticoids are a common cause of secondary diabetes mellitus.
- Increased insulin resistance is the primary mechanism behind steroid-induced hyperglycemia.
- Early detection and proactive management are crucial for patient outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of inflammatory diseases with glucocorticoids requires careful monitoring for hyperglycemia.
- Understanding the pathophysiology aids in timely diagnosis and intervention.
- This guide assists clinicians in managing steroid-induced diabetes, improving patient safety and treatment efficacy.
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