Which side effect is associated with the mnemonic CUSHGOID for corticosteroids?

Which side effect is associated with the mnemonic CUSHGOID for corticosteroids?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Skin thinning
• C. Diarrhea
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (B)

The side effect associated with the mnemonic CUSHGOID for corticosteroids is skin thinning, which is accurately represented by the letter "S" in the mnemonic. Corticosteroids can lead to various side effects due to their impact on the body, and skin thinning, or atrophy, is particularly significant because it can increase the risk of skin injuries, bruising, and infections. This effect occurs as corticosteroids inhibit the synthesis of collagen and other structural proteins in the skin, disrupting normal skin integrity. When patients are aware of this side effect, they can take precautions to protect their skin, such as using moisturizers and applying sunscreen. In contrast, other options like hyperkalemia, diarrhea, and weight loss are not typically associated with corticosteroid use; rather, corticosteroids can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia, gastrointestinal issues are more often constipation rather than diarrhea, and weight gain is a common side effect due to increased appetite and altered fat distribution. Understanding these specific effects can help in patient education and the management of corticosteroid therapy.

The side effect associated with the mnemonic CUSHGOID for corticosteroids is skin thinning, which is accurately represented by the letter "S" in the mnemonic. Corticosteroids can lead to various side effects due to their impact on the body, and skin thinning, or atrophy, is particularly significant because it can increase the risk of skin injuries, bruising, and infections.

This effect occurs as corticosteroids inhibit the synthesis of collagen and other structural proteins in the skin, disrupting normal skin integrity. When patients are aware of this side effect, they can take precautions to protect their skin, such as using moisturizers and applying sunscreen.

In contrast, other options like hyperkalemia, diarrhea, and weight loss are not typically associated with corticosteroid use; rather, corticosteroids can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia, gastrointestinal issues are more often constipation rather than diarrhea, and weight gain is a common side effect due to increased appetite and altered fat distribution. Understanding these specific effects can help in patient education and the management of corticosteroid therapy.