With long-term use of steroids, which type of bone is primarily affected?

• A. Cortical bone
• B. Trabecular bone
• C. Compact bone
• D. Spongy bone

Answer: (B)

Long-term use of steroids primarily affects trabecular bone, which is also known as spongy bone. This type of bone is found within the interior of bones and is more metabolically active compared to cortical bone. Trabecular bone has a higher turnover rate, meaning it is more sensitive to changes in hormone levels, including those caused by steroid use.

Steroids can inhibit osteoblast activity and stimulate osteoclast activity, leading to an increase in bone resorption. Since trabecular bone is more susceptible to these changes, it tends to lose density more rapidly than cortical bone. This loss can contribute to conditions such as osteoporosis, which is significantly influenced by long-term steroid use, particularly because the trabecular bone is crucial for supporting overall bone health and structural integrity.

Cortical bone, in contrast, is denser and provides strength for weight-bearing activities, and is not as significantly impacted in the same timeframe as trabecular bone when steroids are used over long periods.