Corticosteroids in Immunosuppression

Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2022:272:73-84. doi: 10.1007/164_2021_567.

Abstract

Corticosteroids have been utilized as mainstay pharmacological intervention for successful organ transplantation since the beginning. Several challenges exist in establishing a balance between achieving a tolerant atmosphere in the host immune system while minimizing the long-term impact of steroids on the body. Corticosteroids are used early in all solid organ transplantation but there is wide variability across various organs and centers in the duration of use and protocols of planned steroid wean. The adverse event profile of steroids is exhaustive and across many organ systems.

Keywords: Immunosuppression; Organ transplantation; Steroids.

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones* / therapeutic use
  • Graft Rejection
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppression Therapy*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Steroids

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Steroids