Histology Flashcards
What axis regulates adrenal glucocorticoid production?
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis
What hormone does the hypothalamus release to stimulate the anterior pituitary?
Corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH)
What hormone stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce cortisol?
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)
What is the main glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal glands?
Cortisol
What are the main effects of glucocorticoids?
Metabolism, immune responses, growth, and inflammation
Fill in the blank: Cortisol binds to _______ to exert its effects.
Glucocorticoid receptor (GR)
What effect does cortisol have on liver gluconeogenesis?
Increases gluconeogenesis
List three metabolic effects of glucocorticoids.
- Hyperglycemia
- Muscle and skin wasting
- Osteoporosis
What are the major side effects of glucocorticoids?
- Weight gain
- Hirsutism
- Osteoporosis
- Mood changes
- Increased susceptibility to infection
True or False: Glucocorticoids can lead to hypertension due to sodium and water retention.
True
What is the primary mineralocorticoid produced by the adrenal glands?
Aldosterone
Fill in the blank: Aldosterone acts on the distal tubules and collecting ducts to increase _______ reabsorption.
Sodium
What are the therapeutic indications for glucocorticoids?
- Adrenal disorders
- Inflammatory disorders
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cancer
- Allergic reactions
What is the commonest cause of acute adrenocortical insufficiency?
Sudden cessation of steroid drugs after prolonged use
What is the recommended administration schedule for hydrocortisone in chronic adrenal insufficiency?
2/3 in the morning and 1/3 in the afternoon
List two classes of corticosteroid drugs based on their duration of action.
- Short-acting
- Long-acting
What is the mechanism of action for glucocorticoid antagonists like mifepristone?
Competitive inhibitor of glucocorticoid receptors
Fill in the blank: Glucocorticoids are highly _______ soluble and well absorbed after oral administration.
Lipid
What is the role of cytochrome P450 enzymes in glucocorticoid pharmacokinetics?
Oxidation and metabolism
True or False: Topical or inhalational administration of glucocorticoids avoids most systemic adverse effects.
True
What is the term for the syndrome that can occur with therapeutic doses of glucocorticoids over 2 weeks?
Iatrogenic Cushing syndrome
What are the three mechanisms by which glucocorticoids exert their anti-inflammatory effects?
- Inhibit B cell function
- Inhibit T cell function
- Stabilize lysosomal membranes
What are some conditions treated with inhaled glucocorticoids?
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis
What are the effects of glucocorticoids on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis with long-term use?
Suppression of ACTH release
