Periodicidad semestral: flujo continuo.
ISSN - Electrónico: 2661-6947 / DOI: 10.36015 • LILACS BIREME (19784); LATINDEX (20666)
Corticosteroid-induced hyperglycemia is an abnormal increase in blood glucose due to the use of glucocorticoids (GCs). Its incidence varies depending on the dose, the method of administration, and individual factors such as age, BMI, and family history of diabetes. According to the ADA, 10 to 15% of hospitalized patients receive corticosteroids, and 56 to 86% of them may develop corticosteroid-induced hyperglycemia, even without prior diabetes.
Glucocorticoids affect carbohydrate metabolism by decreasing glucose absorption due to insulin resistance in the liver, muscle, and other peripheral tissues. The effects vary depending on the type and dose of glucocorticoids; intermediate-acting ones (prednisone) mainly cause postprandial hyperglycemia, while long-acting ones (dexamethasone) generate persistent hyperglycemia beyond 24 hours.
Regarding treatment, the objectives must be individualized according to comorbidities, life expectancy, adherence to treatment and risk of hypoglycemia. A target glucose range of 140 to 180 mg/dL is recommended for most hospitalized patients, with adjustments based on the patient's clinical condition, type of glucocorticoid, and dose received. In mild cases, oral hypoglycemic agents such as metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, or GLP-1 receptor agonists may be used. In more significant hyperglycemia, insulin is the treatment of choice.
In conclusion, identifying patients at risk, adequately monitoring glucose levels, and adjusting treatment is important to minimize complications and improve clinical outcomes.
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