The Action of Corticosteroids on the Renal Reabsorption of Calcium

Abstract

The tubular reabsorption of Ca has been studied by means of Ca clearance investigations in 16 patients with non endocrine diseases during long term therapy with small doses of corticosteroids. The tubular reabsorption of Ca was reduced in 7 patients. This is attributed to the anti-anabolic action of the corticosteroids on the cells of the tubules. Ca reabsorption became normal on administration of anabolic steroids.

Impaired mineral metabolism in Cushing's syndrome: Parathyroid function, vitamin D metabolites and osteopenia.

“…Similar findings have demonstrated (Laake, 1960;Suzuki et al, 1983) and regarded as an important factor in the development of secondary hyperparathyroidism under glucocorticoid excess (Suzuki et al, 1983).…”

Pathogenesis and Treatment of Steroid Osteoporosis

“…Laake (1960) pointed out that tubular reabsorption of calcium was decreased in some patients taking steroids, with a consequent rise in urine calcium loss. Since that time, an increase in 24-h urine calcium excretion during the first month of glucocorticoid therapy has been documented by a number of workers (Wajchenberg et ul., 1969;Hahn et al, 1980;Caniggia el al., 1981;Gennari et al, 1984b).…”

The Hypercalcemia of Adrenal Insufficiency*

“…Steroid administration and hypercorticism are usually associated with increased urinary calcium excretion (29,30). After withdrawal of hormone therapy in Addison's disease (26), urinary excretion of calcium may fall.…”