Systemic corticosteroids can have what negative effect on the eye?

Systemic corticosteroids can have what negative effect on the eye?

• A. Glaucoma
• B. Cataracts
• C. Retinopathy
• D. Macular Edema

Answer: (A)

Systemic corticosteroids can raise intraocular pressure by reducing the outflow of aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork, leading to glaucoma. This steroid-induced increase in IOP can progressively damage the optic nerve if not detected and managed, making glaucoma the most recognized and immediate eye complication of systemic steroids. While long-term use can also contribute to cataracts, that effect tends to occur with prolonged exposure and is a separate mechanism. Retinopathy and macular edema are not typical direct ocular effects of systemic corticosteroids, so the standout adverse effect from systemic steroids in this context is glaucoma.

Systemic corticosteroids can raise intraocular pressure by reducing the outflow of aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork, leading to glaucoma. This steroid-induced increase in IOP can progressively damage the optic nerve if not detected and managed, making glaucoma the most recognized and immediate eye complication of systemic steroids. While long-term use can also contribute to cataracts, that effect tends to occur with prolonged exposure and is a separate mechanism. Retinopathy and macular edema are not typical direct ocular effects of systemic corticosteroids, so the standout adverse effect from systemic steroids in this context is glaucoma.