Complications of steroid use on Mt Everest
Subedi BH., Pokharel J., Goodman TL., Amatya S., Freer L., Banskota N., Johnson E., Basnyat B.
Steroids are used for the prevention and treatment of high-altitude illnesses. However, these agents can cause significant side effects. We report a case of altered mental status, gastrointestinal bleeding, skin rash, and avascular necrosis in a climber taking prophylactic dexamethasone prior to an attempt to climb Mt Everest. High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE), steroid toxicity, and acute adrenal crisis can have similar clinical presentations. Differentiating between these life-threatening conditions at high altitude is essential for successful treatment. © 2010 Wilderness Medical Society.