Corticoid Therapy Flashcards
(35 cards)
What is a hormone?
A chemical substance produced in the body that controls and regulates the activity of certain cells or organs.
What is a steroid?
A large group of fat-soluble organic compounds with specific physiological actions, including sterols, bile acids, and sex hormones.
What is a mineralocorticoid?
A corticosteroid involved in maintaining salt balance, such as aldosterone.
What is a glucocorticoid?
A corticosteroid involved in metabolism and anti-inflammatory responses, e.g., hydrocortisone.
What are catecholamines?
Aromatic amines such as adrenaline and dopamine that function as neurotransmitters.
Where are the adrenal glands located?
On top of the kidneys.
What are the three parts of the adrenal gland?
Capsule, adrenal cortex, and adrenal medulla.
Where are mineralocorticoids produced?
In the adrenal cortex.
What is the primary target of mineralocorticoids?
The kidneys.
Where are glucocorticoids produced?
In the adrenal cortex.
What is the primary target of glucocorticoids?
The entire body.
What are androgens?
Hormones that influence male growth and development; also present in females.
What enzyme deficiency is associated with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)?
21-hydroxylase deficiency.
What are the two main types of CAH?
Salt-wasting and simple virilisation forms.
How is glucocorticoid production controlled?
By the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
How do glucocorticoids drive a cellular response?
By binding to intracellular receptors that alter gene transcription.
What are some uses of glucocorticoids in medicine?
Replacement therapy (Addison’s disease), anti-inflammatory use (e.g., asthma, arthritis), and treating shock.
What is the physiological dose usage statistic in the UK?
About 1% of the adult population takes oral glucocorticoids at any time.
Name two synthetic glucocorticoids.
Prednisolone and hydrocortisone.
What are common mineralocorticoid drugs?
Fludrocortisone and aldosterone.
What are the main actions of mineralocorticoids?
Promote sodium and water reabsorption, and potassium excretion in the kidneys.
What is a serious side effect of long-term glucocorticoid therapy?
Cushing’s Syndrome.
What percentage of patients taking steroids for more than 60 days report adverse effects?
Up to 90%.
List five possible adverse effects of glucocorticoids.
AVN, osteoporosis, GI bleeding, diabetes, psychosis.
