A patient with nephrotic syndrome on longstanding coicosteroid therapy may develop all the following except:
**Core Concept**
Nephrotic syndrome is a clinical condition characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. Long-term corticosteroid therapy can have various side effects, including metabolic and endocrine disturbances.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Corticosteroids can cause a range of adverse effects, including hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, and adrenal suppression, due to their glucocorticoid activity. However, osteoporosis is a well-documented consequence of long-term corticosteroid therapy. Another potential side effect is glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, leading to hyperglycemia. Furthermore, corticosteroids can also cause psychiatric problems, such as mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Finally, long-term corticosteroid use can lead to Cushing's syndrome, characterized by weight gain, hypertension, and hyperglycemia.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not a known side effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy in patients with nephrotic syndrome.
**Option B:** This option is a known side effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy, characterized by weight gain, hypertension, and hyperglycemia.
**Option C:** This option is not a known side effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy in patients with nephrotic syndrome.
**Option D:** This option is a known side effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy, characterized by weight gain, hypertension, and hyperglycemia.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to monitor patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy for signs of hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, and psychiatric problems. Regular blood glucose monitoring, bone density scans, and psychiatric evaluations can help identify these side effects early on.
**Correct Answer: C.**