AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF EFFECT ON LIPID PROFILE BY SHORT TERM USE OF LOW DOSE STEROID THERAPY IN COMMON ORTHOPAEDIC CONDITIONS

Introduction:Corticosteroids, potent anti-inflammatory drugs used for decades, provide symptomatic relief but carry risks like infection and chronic conditions. Despite complications, theyre prescribed for orthopedic issues. Glucocorticoids influence lipid levels, with conflicting effects. Steroids are termed a double-edged sword. This study aims to assess lipid profile effects of short-term, low-dose steroid therapy in Orthopedics and Rheumatology, evaluating glucocorticoid therapy impact and investigating other effects on musculoskeletal patients. Materials and Methods:This prospective, non-randomized observational study was conducted, focusing on patients with orthopedic and rheumatological issues. Over 150 patients were included, selected through convenient sampling. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 18-65 without dyslipidemia or cardiovascular conditions, while exclusion criteria included those with specific medical conditions or high BMI. Patients provided written informed consent before undergoing blood tests for lipid profile and blood sugar levels, with vital signs measured. They received Medrol 4 mg thrice daily for ten days, after which outcomes including lipid levels, blood sugar, and blood pressure were assessed. Results:At baseline, 88.67% had desirable cholesterol levels and 11.33% had borderline levels. At follow-up, 20.67% had borderline levels and 79.33% had desirable levels, a statistically significant difference. Mean cholesterol levels decreased from 169.16 ± 19.70 mg/dl to 161.11 ± 27.60 mg/dl, also significant. For triglycerides, 92.67% had normal levels at baseline, decreasing to 65.33% at follow-up, with mean levels increasing from 131.33 ± 6.97 mg/dl to 139.12 ± 23.88 mg/dl. HDL levels showed improvement, with 84.67% having desirable levels at baseline compared to 43.33% at follow-up, with mean levels increasing from 41.09 ± 5.13 mg/dl to 50.71 ± 4.21 mg/dl. LDL levels decreased from 132.43 ± 16.86 mg/dl to 122.59 ± 16.93 mg/dl, with significant changes in distribution. Conclusions:Short-term steroid use for orthopedic conditions affects lipid profiles: Total cholesterol, LDL, and TG rise significantly, countered by increased HDL, offering protection. Long-term effects on lipid profiles and cardiovascular risk require further study. Risk of avascular necrosis due to subtle lipid profile changes also warrants investigation.