2.  Endocrine glands release hormones
(chemicals) into the blood and include the
thyroid, pancreas, pituitary, ovaries and
testes.
 Disorders of the endocrine system and
metabolism, such as diabetes mellitus and
hypothyroidism, may have wide-ranging,
serious effects, and in some cases may be
fatal if left untreated.

4.  Corticosteroids, which are synthetic
hormones that are chiefly used to treat
inflammation in a variety of disorders and
may also be used as hormone replacement
therapy.
 Topical corticosteroids, which are used to
treat certain skin disorders.

5.  Corticosteroids are related to corticosteroid
hormones produced by the body. The
production of corticosteroid hormones by the
adrenal glands is regulated by corticotropin,
a pituitary hormone.

6.  Corticosteroids affect many body processes,
including virtually all aspects of the inflammatory
process. Their exact mechanism of action is
unknown, but one of their effects is to reduce the
production of prostaglandins, substances that
play a key role in triggering inflammation.
Corticosteroids also suppress the immune
system by reducing the production and
effectiveness of certain white blood cells that are
an important part of the body’s immune
response.

7.  The drugs may be injected directly into body
tissues near inflamed areas such as tendons
and joints.
 Topical corticosteroids in the form of creams
and ointments are used to reduce
inflammation and itching in some skin
conditions.
 Oral corticosteroids are used for severe
rheumatoid arthritis and respiratory disorders
such as asthma, sarcoidosis, and fibrosing
alveolitis.