Steroids and Avascular Necrosis

Posted By Sandy on September 28, 1997 at 17:10:28:









I have had 1 gmX5 days of  IV steroids four times  and 3 treatments of oral steroids in 19 months for exacerbations of MS. In May, my upper thigh/outer hip area started to hurt when Iwould  use my leg to rise from a sitting position (car,chair etc.) and climbing stairs. I doesn't hurt  at rest, or in the morning.  My internist (without complete knowledge of the steroids) thinks that I have an inflamed bursa and has prescribed PT.  A friend of mine who is also a transplant surgeon said that she treats alot of patients who have been on heavy steroids and that I described a classic case of avacular necrosis.  She thinks it's crucial that I tell the internist about the steroids.  Is my friend over reacting?  Can ultra sound complicate the problem is it is avascular necrosis vs. an inflamed bursa?  I am 46 and  have never been told before that I have bursitis.  If there is a possibility of it being avascular necrosis, should that be checked out before I try therapy or visa versa?  Thanks for your time.  Your forum is a great idea.  More learning/research centers should follow your lead.