title: [The intra-articular glucocorticoid injection; short-term success with potential side effects].
abstract: - Intra-articular injections have been in use for over 60 years. However, there is increasing awareness of potential side effects associated with the intra- and peri-articular use of both glucocorticoids and topical analgesics.- In this review we will discuss the effects and side effects of intra-articular glucocorticoid injections in the context of non-rheumatic knee and shoulder conditions. Other commonly used indications for glucocorticoid use are also described.- For almost all indications, intra-articular glucocorticoid injections provide a small and short-term pain-suppressing effect. Long-term therapeutic effects do not exist.- Side effects range from local skin problems to adrenocortical suppression which can persist for weeks.- Glucocorticoid injections may be indicated in daily practice but have no long-term effect. In view of the potential (harmful) side effects, it is advisable to use the lowest possible effective dose.
authors.affiliation: Elisabeth-TweeSteden Ziekenhuis, afd. Orthopedie, Tilburg.
authors.forename: S E W
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Geraets
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Gosens
mesh_terms: D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007270:Injections, Intra-Articular; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D005938:Glucocorticoids