Which lab value is important to monitor in patients taking corticosteroids?

Monitoring glucose levels in patients taking corticosteroids is essential due to the effect these medications have on carbohydrate metabolism. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis in the liver and reducing the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin. This can lead to hyperglycemia, especially in patients with pre-existing diabetes or those at risk for diabetes.

Patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy may also experience altered metabolism that impacts their overall glycemic control. For this reason, healthcare providers often advise regular monitoring of glucose levels to identify and manage any potential increases early, ensuring the patient's overall health and minimizing complications, such as diabetes-related diseases.

Other lab values such as potassium, calcium, and sodium may also be relevant in various contexts; for example, corticosteroids can cause fluid retention which may lead to changes in sodium levels, and they can affect bone density over time, but glucose remains a critical focus for managing the immediate effects of corticosteroid therapy.