Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To understand the effects of glucocorticoids (GC), which are of importance to patients. METHODS: The results of 2 literature reviews, a patient survey, and a qualitative study were presented. RESULTS: No validated instrument exists to evaluate GC effect on patients. Survey data revealed skin thinning/bruising, sleep disturbance, and weight gain as the most frequent adverse effects. The qualitative research yielded rich data covering rapid benefits and physical and emotional consequences of GC. CONCLUSION: It was agreed that a patient-reported outcome to measure GC effect was required and a research agenda was developed for this goal.