Myopathy caused by glucocorticosteroids G73.7

Toxic myopathy after taking glucocorticosteroids.

Glucocorticoids can cause myopathy if taken over a long period of time. The potentially damaging effect of the steroids on the skeletal muscles is usually only noticeable after a treatment period of 4 weeks. This can lead to muscular atrophy, which typically manifests itself mainly with weakness or even paralysis of the pelvic girdle muscles. In addition, rapid fatigue and occasionally myalgias may occur.

1. Creutzberg EC et al (2003) A role for anabolic steroids in the rehabilitation of patients with COPD? A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial. Chest 124:1733-1742.