Glucocorticoid resistance
Glucocorticoid resistance
Glucocorticoid resistance is a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the sensitivity of glucocorticoid receptors to glucocorticoids, a class of steroid hormones.
Pronunciation
Glucocorticoid resistance is pronounced as "gloo-ko-kor-ti-koid re-zis-tance".
Etymology
The term "glucocorticoid" is derived from early observations that these hormones were involved in glucose metabolism. It comes from the Greek words "glykys" meaning "sweet", "kortikos" meaning "bark", and "eidos" meaning "form". The term "resistance" comes from the Latin "resistentia", meaning "to resist".
Definition
Glucocorticoid resistance is a syndrome in which cells become less responsive to the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of glucocorticoids. This can lead to an increase in the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, potentially resulting in Cushing's syndrome.
Symptoms
Symptoms of glucocorticoid resistance may include fatigue, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Causes
Glucocorticoid resistance can be caused by mutations in the glucocorticoid receptor gene, leading to a decrease in the number or function of these receptors. Other potential causes include chronic stress, certain medications, and diseases such as HIV and rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment
Treatment for glucocorticoid resistance typically involves managing the underlying cause and may include the use of glucocorticoid receptor agonists or other medications to increase the sensitivity of the glucocorticoid receptors.
Related Terms
- Glucocorticoid receptor
- Glucocorticoids
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone
- Cushing's syndrome
- HIV
- Rheumatoid arthritis
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Glucocorticoid resistance
- Wikipedia's article - Glucocorticoid resistance
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