Lydia was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and has been taking prednisone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, to minimize the inflammatory symptoms of the disease. Lydia has developed a “pot-belly,” a rounder face, and more facial hair. Concerned about these changes, she visits her physician. The physician tells Lydia that her symptoms are more likely caused by her use of prednisone rather than another disease. Lydia decides to discontinue her use of prednisone. Her physician gives her a regimen to slowly reduce the amount of prednisone she is taking.
Answer the following questions.
1. Draw the negative feedback loop associated with this scenario.
2. The signs of Lydia’s use of prednisone mimic those of what endocrine disease? Explain the cause(s) of this disease.
3. What other side effects would you expect prednisone to have?
4. She can also have osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, cataracts, and increased risk of infections due to its immunosuppressive effects.
5. Describe how prednisone would affect the secretion of CRH, ACTH, and cortisol.
6. Based on your understanding of the regulation of hormones, explain why the physician would recommend a gradual withdrawal of prednisone rather than an abrupt cessation of its use.