Incidence of Steroid-Induced Cushing Syndrome, its Treatment Outcome and Influence on Quality of Life in Primary Brain Tumor Patients Receiving Radical/Adjuvant Radiation Therapy

Background: Steroids are more commonly used in the treatment of tumor-induced edema in primary brain tumor patients receiving radiation therapy. Steroid-induced Cushing syndrome is one of the adverse effects of steroid therapy. The present study aimed to find out the incidence of steroid-induced Cushing syndrome, their treatment outcome and the influence of steroid induced Cushing syndrome on health-related quality of life in primary brain tumor patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted for the period of 4 months in the department of radiation oncology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU) from April 2024 to July 2024. A total of 10 patients treated with radical/adjuvant radiation therapy were included as per inclusion and exclusion criteria. The health-related quality of life was assessed using validated Cushing-QOL questionnaire. Results: Out of 10 patients, females were predominant (60%) over males (40%). Among 10 patients, 2 developed Cushing syndrome. Patients with steroid-induced Cushing syndrome have an impaired quality of life compared to other patients. Patients with Cushing syndrome have trouble brushing easily, irritability, mood swings and a poor quality of life. Conclusion: In this study, the incidence of steroid-induced crushing syndrome was found to be 20%. The treatment outcome of steroid-induced Cushing syndrome was found to be improved after tapering the dose of steroids. Patients with steroid-induced Cushing syndrome experienced significant impairments in various aspects of their quality of life, including physical health, psychological well-being and social functioning.