| [ Summary ] |
Corticosteroids (steroids) reduced mortality of ulcerative colitis (UC) and changed treatment strategy. Steroids show a significant efficacy in induction therapy, while there is no evidence of efficacy of steroids in maintenance therapy. The patients who have been administered steroids for long term have increased risk of adverse effects of steroids such as osteoporosis, infection, or diabetes. In the cases of steroid dependent and steroid resistant UC, other treatment options including immunomodulators, apheresis, and biologics, should be concerned. Importantly, we must not miss indications for surgery in severe cases. |