Corticosteroid Adrenal Suppression — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Adrenal suppression and impaired stress response
Long-term systemic corticosteroid use (>2 weeks at supraphysiological doses) suppresses the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, causing secondary adrenal insufficiency. These patients may be unable to mount an adequate cortisol response to physiological stress (pain, infection, surgery), risking adrenal crisis. Other effects include impaired wound healing, increased infection risk, osteoporosis, diabetes, hypertension, peptic ulcers, and immunosuppression — all relevant to dental treatment planning.
Reference: Malamed – Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office, 8th ed., 2022