The risk benefit ratio of glucocorticoids in SLE: have things changed over the past 40 years?

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

Glucocorticoids have been the mainstay of treatment in systemic lupus erythematosus for more than half a century. Despite advancements in knowledge concerning the pathophysiology of systemic lupus, the genomic/non-genomic actions of glucocorticoids, and the use of novel therapeutic agents in SLE, the burden of toxicity from glucocorticoid use remains unchanged.

Recent findings

SLE patients receiving long-term prednisone therapy are at significant risk of morbidity due to permanent organ damage and prednisone daily dosages above 6 mg have been shown to increase the risk of future organ damage by 50%. Glucocorticoid use carries a higher risk of opportunistic infections, iatrogenic osteoporosis and avascular necrosis, an increase in risk of cardiovascular even

SUBMITTER: Stojan G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5565217 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature