Describe the mechanism of action of corticosteroids used in veterinary medicine and list common adverse effects.

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Multiple Choice

Describe the mechanism of action of corticosteroids used in veterinary medicine and list common adverse effects.

Corticosteroids work through anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions by dampening the body's inflammatory pathways at multiple points. They stimulate production of lipocortin-1 (annexin A1), which directly inhibits phospholipase A2. That stops the release of arachidonic acid, so the downstream synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes is reduced. In addition, they enter cells and alter gene transcription, dialing down many inflammatory mediators and immune cell activities. This combination explains both the strong anti-inflammatory effect and the broad immunosuppression seen with corticosteroids. Common adverse effects reflect systemic metabolic and mucosal changes from prolonged exposure. Long-term use can cause Cushingoid changes—weight gain, increased appetite, and characteristic fat redistribution with a pot-bellied appearance and thinning of the skin. They often lead to polyuria and polydipsia, and increased appetite with weight gain. The gastric mucosa becomes more susceptible to irritation, so gastritis or ulcers can occur. Immunosuppression raises infection risk and can impair wound healing. These adverse effects are best avoided or minimized by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible and by monitoring for metabolic and gastrointestinal complications.

Corticosteroids work through anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions by dampening the body's inflammatory pathways at multiple points. They stimulate production of lipocortin-1 (annexin A1), which directly inhibits phospholipase A2. That stops the release of arachidonic acid, so the downstream synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes is reduced. In addition, they enter cells and alter gene transcription, dialing down many inflammatory mediators and immune cell activities. This combination explains both the strong anti-inflammatory effect and the broad immunosuppression seen with corticosteroids.

Common adverse effects reflect systemic metabolic and mucosal changes from prolonged exposure. Long-term use can cause Cushingoid changes—weight gain, increased appetite, and characteristic fat redistribution with a pot-bellied appearance and thinning of the skin. They often lead to polyuria and polydipsia, and increased appetite with weight gain. The gastric mucosa becomes more susceptible to irritation, so gastritis or ulcers can occur. Immunosuppression raises infection risk and can impair wound healing. These adverse effects are best avoided or minimized by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible and by monitoring for metabolic and gastrointestinal complications.

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