The Role of Corticosteroids in Today's Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Cortisol in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Double-Edged Sword

“…Cortisol is a steroid hormone that the body naturally secretes in minute quantities. This natural steroid plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body, and its synthetic analogs are extensively used in the treatment of various medical conditions [ 1 ]. Cortisol is mainly used to reduce inflammatory reactions following surgical procedures.…”

“…The potential of cortisol for reducing postoperative edema was first explored by Hooley and Hohl in 1974; they observed that the use of topical steroids following surgical procedures on the lips and oral commissures significantly reduced ulcers and excoriation and subsequently reduced postoperative tissue retraction [ 2 ]. Cortisol is a very potent drug against inflammatory responses and is thus frequently prescribed for various conditions [ 1 ]. Careful consideration is required before initiating the use of cortisol and its synthetic analogs in patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery.…”

“…The use of cortisol is contraindicated in patients with bacterial infection of primary origin, hypersensitivity reactions, gastric ulcers, elevated blood glucose and blood pressure levels, osteoporosis, herpes simplex infection, epilepsy, mental illnesses (including psychosis), congestive heart failure, or renal failure [ 1 ] ( Table 1 ). Evidence for the use of topical cortisol in pregnant women is not unequivocal.…”

“…Contraindications of cortisol use according to the route of administration[1]. glaucoma, cataract, underactive thyroid, heart diseases, tuberculosis, mycobacterial diseases, active peptic ulcer, pregnancy, diabetes, osteoporosis, infections, herpes simplex infection, varicella-zoster infection, and immune deficiency diseases Topical Primary bacterial infections, such as impetigo, furuncles, erysipelas, carbuncles, cellulitis, and lymphangitis, and hypersensitivity to any component of the preparation Parenteral Hypersensitivity to corticosteroids, active tuberculosis, and infections…”

66 Years of Corticosteroids in Dentistry: And We Are Still at a Cross Road?

“…Most of the corticosteroids prescribed in dentistry are for topical applications or short-term usage, rarely for its systemic effects or for long-term consumption, as in the treatment of some medical conditions. Five years ago, a chapter entitled "The role of Corticosteroids in today's Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery" [1] has been published in the book "Glucocorticoids-New Recognition of Our Familiar Friend". The objective of this chapter is therefore to complement the previous publication as well as providing an update on the use of corticosteroids in dentistry, instead of merely oral and maxillofacial surgery.…”