Hypertension and Diabetes Melitus Type II Associated with Systemic Corticosteroids: Challenges of Pemphigus Vulgaris Therapy in the Elderly

Abstract

Long-term treatment and high doses of systemic corticosteroids in Pemphigus Vulgaris (PV) also carry the risk of various side effects, such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. A male, 62 years old, has been diagnosed with PV accompanied by type 2 diabetes mellitus, and grade I hypertension. The patient was given therapy with dexamethasone 5 mg/day IV and mycophenolate mofetil 500 mg twice a day. Patients also receive treatment to control glucose and blood pressure, and debridement procedures are carried out. After administering therapy, the patient saw clinical improvement. Corticosteroid administration can also be combined with adjuvant steroid-sparing agents to increase the treatment effect, reduce the side effects of corticosteroids, and prevent recurrence if stopped gradually. The importance of considering side effects when administering corticosteroid therapy, and monitoring glucose and blood pressure can reduce morbidity and mortality in patients.