Are corticosteroids in intensive care immunosuppressive? Reflections and hypotheses

Abstract

This review reconsiders the classification of corticosteroids as immunosuppressants in the management of acute inflammatory conditions in critical care. Despite their widespread use in ARDS and septic shock, the association between corticosteroid therapy and increased infection risk remains contentious. By exploring alternative mechanisms and presenting new hypotheses, this review suggests that the traditional view of corticosteroids as immunosuppressants may be overly simplistic and context dependent.

Keywords: Acute respiratory distress syndrome; Corticosteroids; Immunosupression; Sepsis.