Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What condition may result from prolonged steroid use?

1. Anemia

2. Cushing's Syndrome

3. Diabetic Ketoacidosis

4. Hypotension

The correct answer is: Cushing's Syndrome

Prolonged steroid use can lead to Cushing's Syndrome, which is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body. Corticosteroids, commonly used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, mimic cortisol and can induce symptoms associated with Cushing's when administered in high doses or for extended periods. These symptoms may include weight gain, particularly in the face and abdomen, thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and increased blood pressure, among others. Cushing's Syndrome results from the overstimulation of metabolic processes due to sustained elevated cortisol levels, which can disrupt various bodily functions and lead to complications over time. Understanding this condition is vital for managing patients on long-term steroid therapy, as it emphasizes the importance of monitoring for these potential side effects and implementing strategies to mitigate them, such as dose adjustments or the use of steroid-sparing therapies. In contrast, the other conditions listed, such as anemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hypotension, do not typically arise directly from steroid use, making Cushing's Syndrome the most relevant consequence of prolonged corticosteroid therapy.