Steroid Use in Oncology: Risks and Research Insights

Ask about steroids again?

Thank you for the doctor's response.
I would like to ask again: after my follow-up visit, I have stopped taking steroids, but this doctor does not believe that taking steroids for two weeks after my CT scan for cough treatment will have any impact.
Is this correct? However, aren't carcinogenic studies often conducted in this manner? After communicating with the original doctor, I feel that the prescription was somewhat casual, which has left me feeling a bit uneasy.
Could I consult Dr.
Chen on whether there are any relevant literature or studies regarding the potential effects of this mechanism? Thank you very much.
I truly appreciate it.

An, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/10/27

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology

1.
After the follow-up visit, I have stopped taking steroid medication.
A: That's great! If the condition requires it in the future, you can resume the medication.

2.
However, this doctor does not believe that taking steroids for two weeks after a CT scan for cough treatment will have any impact.
Is this correct? A: I also believe that it won't have an effect; both the radiation dose and the steroid dose are quite low.
A single CT scan will not cause cancer, and low doses of steroids will not lead to immunosuppression.

3.
But aren't cancer-causing experiments typically conducted this way? A: You are a human, not a mouse; your body is much larger.

4.
Communicating with the original doctor made me feel that the prescriptions were somewhat casual, which left me feeling a bit upset.
A: In Taiwan, people often expect effective treatment for colds, so some doctors may prescribe antibiotics or steroids to enhance the effectiveness of cold treatment.
If you are uncomfortable with this, you can discuss it with your doctor.
Remember to explain your preferences each time you see a new doctor! Steroids and antibiotics are only necessary for conditions like asthma or cellulitis.

5.
May I ask Dr.
Chen if there are any relevant literature or studies regarding the effects of such mechanisms? A: Many people in Taiwan experience similar situations.
A single CT scan will not cause cancer, and low doses of steroids will not lead to immunosuppression.
Reading academic papers can complicate your understanding, as there is pressure to publish.
Researchers design studies to highlight differences in subjects to demonstrate results, which is why they get published.

5.1 It is impossible to conduct experiments on humans in the same way as on mice.

5.2 It cannot be proven that human immunity decreases; rather, a reduction in certain white blood cells is inferred to indicate decreased immunity.
This is how journals publish findings, showing whether the subject has any differences.

5.3 For example, people in the Chianan area drinking groundwater may have an increased risk of black foot disease, and smoking increases the risk of lung cancer.

5.4 Whether occasionally consuming unhealthy oils increases cancer risk has yet to be confirmed.

5.5 A single CT scan will not cause cancer, and low doses of steroids will not lead to immunosuppression.
This has been confirmed, as a single CT scan does not exceed the annual radiation dose that is considered acceptable.
The body naturally secretes steroids, for instance, during times of stress, and it has self-regulating functions.
Low doses have minimal impact on the body.
Thank you, Dr.
Tao.

Chen Si-Rong

Reply Date: 2014/10/27

More Info

Steroid use in oncology is a complex topic that involves weighing the benefits against potential risks. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and dexamethasone, are commonly used in cancer treatment for various reasons, including managing inflammation, alleviating symptoms, and enhancing the effectiveness of other therapies. However, concerns about their long-term effects, particularly regarding cancer risk, have been a subject of ongoing research.

Firstly, it's important to clarify that while corticosteroids can be beneficial in managing symptoms related to cancer and its treatment, they are not without side effects. Short-term use, such as the two-week course you mentioned for treating a cough, is generally considered safe for most patients. The immediate benefits often outweigh the risks, especially when used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to significant side effects, including immunosuppression, increased risk of infections, osteoporosis, and metabolic changes.

Regarding your concern about the potential link between steroid use and cancer, it's essential to understand that while some studies have suggested a possible association between long-term steroid use and an increased risk of certain cancers, the evidence is not definitive. The mechanisms by which corticosteroids might influence cancer development are still being studied. Some hypotheses suggest that steroids could potentially alter immune responses or promote the growth of certain cell types, but these effects can vary significantly depending on the type of cancer, the duration and dosage of steroid use, and individual patient factors.

In animal studies, corticosteroids have been shown to have various effects on tumor growth and immune function, but translating these findings to human patients is complex. Most clinical guidelines suggest that the benefits of corticosteroid therapy in managing cancer-related symptoms or side effects of treatment often outweigh the potential risks, particularly when used for short durations.

If you are feeling uneasy about the treatment plan or the medications prescribed, it is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. Discuss your concerns regarding steroid use and any potential risks you perceive. A good oncologist will appreciate your proactive approach to your health and will be willing to provide you with evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions.

For further reading, you may want to look into studies published in reputable medical journals that focus on the role of corticosteroids in oncology. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) often provide guidelines and research updates that can offer insights into the current understanding of steroid use in cancer treatment.

In summary, while corticosteroids are widely used in oncology and can be effective in managing symptoms, their use should always be carefully considered and monitored. If you have specific concerns about your treatment or the medications you are taking, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further clarification from your healthcare provider. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and understanding the rationale behind your treatment plan is an essential part of your care.

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