Anesthesia Pharmacology Clinical Case: Adrenocorticoids

Anesthesia Pharmacology: Adrenocorticosteroid Pharmacology Practice Questions

A 28 year old black female was diagnosed eight months ago with lupus erythematosus.
At that time the patient was placed on prednisone at a dose of 0.4 mg/kg (single dose per day).
The patient seeks medical attention because of a recent weight loss (12 pounds), down to 120 pounds.
Complaints include: fever, joint pain, fatigue, and a worsening of facial rash.
Physical exam and laboratory results confirm that the patient is experiencing a flare up of her system lupus erythematosus.

What is the rationale for using corticosteroids in managing systemic lupus erythematosis?
1. suppression of inflammatory response
2. immunosuppressive affects
3. both
4. neither
What symptoms are consistent with an inflammatory response to systemic lupus erythematosus?
1. fever
2. joint pain
3. worsening rash
4. A & B
5. A, B & C
Should this patient's 0.4 mg/kg prednisone dosage be continued?
1. yes
2. no
What would be a reasonable corticosteroid(s) for this patient to manage acute exacerbation of lupus erythematosus?
1. topical preparations for inflammatory rashes
2. high-dose bolus (IV) infusion for acute, severe presentation
3. both
4. neither