Which of the following ocular complication can occur as a result of chronic systemic steroid use?
**Core Concept**
Chronic systemic steroid use can lead to various ocular complications due to its effects on the body's inflammatory response and tissue homeostasis. One of the notable complications is the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts, which is a type of cataract that affects the posterior part of the lens capsule.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Posterior subcapsular cataracts are thought to occur due to the disruption of the normal lens metabolism by corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can increase the permeability of the lens capsule, leading to the accumulation of proteins and the formation of cataractous opacities. This is a well-documented side effect of chronic corticosteroid use, and it is a major concern in patients receiving long-term steroid therapy.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Glaucoma is a potential complication of corticosteroid use, but it is not the most direct or common ocular complication.
**Option B:** Uveitis is an inflammatory condition of the uvea, and while corticosteroids can treat uveitis, they are not a cause of it.
**Option C:** Retinal detachment is a serious ocular condition, but it is not typically associated with chronic corticosteroid use.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that patients on chronic corticosteroid therapy should have regular eye exams to monitor for the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts.
**Correct Answer: C. Retinal detachment is a serious ocular condition, but it is not typically associated with chronic corticosteroid use.