For which condition are corticosteroids commonly indicated?

Corticosteroids are commonly indicated for inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. They work by reducing inflammation, suppressing the immune response, and decreasing the activity of immune cells, which is crucial in managing conditions characterized by excessive inflammation or immune system activity.

For example, in asthma, corticosteroids help to control airway inflammation and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. In rheumatoid arthritis, they alleviate joint inflammation and pain, improving mobility and quality of life for patients.

Other conditions listed, such as viral infections, fungal infections, and heart disease, do not typically warrant the use of corticosteroids as a first-line treatment, since these conditions may not involve the inflammatory processes that corticosteroids aim to address. Instead, other therapeutic strategies or medications are more appropriate for managing those conditions.