Corticosteroid-Induced Osteonecrosis in COVID-19: A Call For Caution
Bin Zhang, Shuixing Zhang
Abstract
entitled "Osteoporosis Management in the Era of COVID-19." The authors provide excellent guidance on treatment of osteoporosis patients during the corona virus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition to previous osteoporosis, we should also pay close attention to other musculoskeletal complications caused by COVID-19. As of June 30, 2020, there were more than 10.39 million confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide, with 5,07,416 deaths. Until now, no specific treatments have been recommended for COVID-19 except for meticulous supportive care. To fight against the cytokine storm caused by COVID-19 infection, some patients have received treatment with systemic corticosteroids, especially severe and critically ill patients. In China, low-dose (<1 to 2 mg/kg), short-term (3-5 days) methylprednisolone is recommended as adjuvant treatment for COVID-19, However, improper use of systemic corticosteroids can increase the risk of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).