Side effects of steroids
Most brain tumors, especially at advanced stages, will require steroids. In such disabled patients, myopathy and osteoporosis that increase a preexisting motor depen- dency must be prevented by adequate nutritional sup- port (proteins, calcium, vitamin D) and moderate daily physical activity, ideally completed by daily physiother- apy sessions. Fast tapering of steroids may also result in a diffuse myalgia/arthralgia withdrawal syndrome requir- ing a dose increase and slower tapering.