Corticosteroids in diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a therapeutic balancing act

摘要

The presence of comorbid conditions in older patients with diabetes adds considerable complexity to therapeutic management and care [1,2], and may affect functional capabilities and health outcomes [3,4]. More than 50% of older diabetic patients will have at least three comorbid conditions [1,2], with as many as 60% facing treatment conflict as a result [2]. Treatment conflicts are difficult to manage as there is often no or limited evidence-based information to help guide clinicians. The existence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) in those with diabetes represents one of these conflicts and presents a therapeutic dilemma for clinicians treating those patients.