Improving outcomes in children exposed to excess steroid hormones
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Is children's brain development adversely effected by exposure to steroid hormones?
IRAS ID
181592
Contact name
Emma Webb
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 2 days
Research summary
Steroids are widely used to treat children with chronic asthma, hormone dysfunction and other conditions. Whilst we know steroid treatment can have detrimental effects on cardiovascular and bone health there is very limited evidence regarding the effect of steroids on the child’s developing brain. This study therefore aims to examine the effect of chronic excess steroid hormone exposure on brain structure, learning and behaviour in children with different medical conditions requiring long-term treatment with steroids.
As a result of this study in children we will have an improved understanding of the impact of excess steroid hormones on developing brain structure and function. We also aim to identify central nervous system markers of steroid hormone exposure. Whilst children on treatment with steroids currently have their bone density monitored as steroids are known to effect bone strength they do not currently undergo MRI brain or psychological assessment. These studies will enable us to identify whether children receiving steroid would benefit from these assessments. Children with dyslexia benefit from having a diagnosis and receiving extra support in school. Similarly if children receiving high dose steroids have specific memory and attention problems understanding this would help them with their learning and education.
If this study shows that steroid have a detrimental effect on the developing brain the evidence from this study will also support the drive to improve current treatment regimens and to minimize long-term complications in children treated with steroids. For example, to improve the management of adults with congenital adrenal hyperplasia who receive lifelong steroid treatment a physiological steroid replacement has been developed (chronocort). A clear understanding of the effect of steroid treatment in children is required before these new medications are studied in children.
REC name
West Midlands - Edgbaston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/WM/0339
Date of REC Opinion
17 Nov 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion