To Inject or Not to Inject? Corticosteroid Injections in the Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Authors

  • Author- Saira Elaine Anwer Khan, Nighat Mir Ahmad, Sumaira Farman, Muhammad Ahmed Saeed, Syed Muhammad Daniyal Amjad, Hasan Tahir

Abstract

Corticosteroid injections (CSI), a recognized modality of treatment in patients with musculoskeletal conditions, is under controversy post WHO advice against the therapeutic use of systemic corticosteroids for COVID- 19 patients. In our opinion unless CSI is proven harmful, withholding such treatment is not justified. An online survey amongst a significant number of rheumatologists in Pakistan was conducted to assess local practices and outcomes. 55 responses were recorded with 73.6% (n39) being from the province of Punjab. More than two thirds 69.8% (n37) of participants had administered a CSI during the pandemic, and only one patient developed COVID-19. It appears that most rheumatologists in Pakistan have not changed their practice with regards to the use of CSI. Following the recent recommendation of the use of dexamethasone for the treatment of COVID-19 we suggest the guidelines for CSI be revisited.

Keywords:

Corticosteroid Injection, COVID-19, Inflammatory Arthritis, Musculoskeletal Conditions

Published

2021/07/03

Issue

Vol. VOLUME 2-ISSUE 1
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