Corticosteroids in advanced cancer

Despite the fact that there are only a few controlled trials demonstrating the benefits associated with the use of corticosteroids in specific situati ons, these agents are administered frequently to patients with advanced can cer. Corticosteroids may be used alone or as adjuvants in combination with other palliative or antineoplastic treatments, For example, corticosteroids may help prevent nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity reactions to treat ment with chemotherapy or radiation. They are also commonly used as appetit e stimulants in patients with advanced cancer, In the adjuvant setting cort icosteroids help to alleviate pain in advanced cancer patients, including s pecific situations such as back pain related to epidural compression, This article reviews the evidence supporting the use of corticosteroids in a bro ad range of situations seen in patients with advanced cancer.