Authors:
J.P.R. van Merkesteijn, R.A.Th. Gortzak, R.H.B. Allard
Source:
NTvT september 2005; 112: 322 - 324
Section:
summary:
Corticosteroids are produced in the adrenal gland cortex and are subdivided in mineralocorticosteroids and glucocorticosteroids. Usually, corticosteroids are prescribed as drugs to replace natural corticosteroids in case of insufficient functioning adrenal glands and in numerous diseases because of their antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Based on literature data, it was concluded in this article that corticosteroids are never indicated as a preventive measure in regular dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Only in cases of major elective oral and maxillofacial surgery, prescription of corticosteroids may be considered.