Review of the antenatal and postnatal use of steroids

Indian J Pediatr. 2014 May;81(5):466-72. doi: 10.1007/s12098-014-1376-9. Epub 2014 Mar 30.

Abstract

Antenatal and postnatal corticosteroids play an extremely important role in the management of premature infants. The antenatal administration of steroids has been universally implemented. They have not only been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), but also have an impact on the incidence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and possibly retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) by reducing the need for supplemental oxygen due to improved lung function. The postnatal use of dexamethasone in ventilated infants has been adopted with caution, as there have been several reports of long-term neurodevelopmental complications with this therapy. Hence, changes in dosage and indications and the search for alternative therapies has emerged. Hydrocortisone appears to be a good alternative, with reassuring long-term evaluations thus far.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Newborn, Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Steroids / adverse effects
  • Steroids / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Steroids