In patients taking corticosteroids, which increased risk should be closely monitored?

Corticosteroids can significantly affect glucose metabolism, which increases the risk of developing diabetes mellitus in patients who are taking these medications. They can lead to insulin resistance and disrupt glucose homeostasis, particularly with long-term use or at high doses. This is a crucial factor to monitor, especially in patients who may already be at risk for diabetes due to factors like obesity, family history, or pre-existing glucose intolerance.

In the context of the other options, while corticosteroids can indeed have various effects, the direct linkage between corticosteroid use and the development of diabetes mellitus is well-established and a key reason for ongoing surveillance in patients receiving these drugs. Other risks associated with corticosteroid use, such as anaphylaxis or hypotension, are not commonly increased with corticosteroid therapy and are thus less of a concern for monitoring in these patients. Autoimmune disorders may be impacted by corticosteroid use, but the primary concern typically revolves around the metabolic effects leading to diabetes.