Steroid Side Effect Education — SCE Rheumatology MCQ
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Correct answer: A — Patients should be educated about common dose-dependent side effects (weight gain moon face skin thinning bruising mood changes insomnia glucose elevation) and should understand the rationale for gradual tapering to minimise both side effects and adrenal suppression risk
Patient education about glucocorticoid side effects is essential for treatment adherence and safety. Common dose-dependent effects include: metabolic (weight gain central obesity glucose intolerance dyslipidaemia) musculoskeletal (osteoporosis myopathy AVN) dermatological (skin thinning bruising striae poor wound healing) ophthalmological (cataracts glaucoma) endocrine (adrenal suppression) neuropsychiatric (insomnia mood changes psychosis) immunological (infection susceptibility) and cardiovascular (hypertension fluid retention). Patients should carry a steroid emergency card understand that doses must not be stopped abruptly know to seek help during intercurrent illness and be offered bone protection if duration exceeds 3 months at doses ≥7.5 mg.
Reference: BSR 2010 PMR guidelines; BNF corticosteroid adverse effects