[Critical analysis of the use of corticosteroids in the neonatal period]
OBJECTIVE: To review the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of newborns with chronic lung disease, adrenal insufficiency and upper airway edema. SOURCES: Review of the available medical literature on the use of corticosteroids in newborns. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Although there is evidence of short-term clinical improvement of chronic lung disease with the administration of dexamethasone, the available literature did not show significant reduction in neonatal morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. CONCLUSIONS: The use of corticosteroids must be carefully analyzed and restricted to the treatment of severe cases, since these drugs may produce irreversible effects on the nervous system and neurological development of newborns.
Antunes
M
M
Calgary University, Alberta, Canada.
Belik
J
J