Study to assess the knowledge of caretakers regarding corticosteroid therapy in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia – 21 hydroxylase deficiency

BACKGROUND: The primary aim of treating congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency is to replace the deficient glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, to minimize the excess androgen production and to facilitate normal growth. Children with CAH require daily treatment lifelong and increased dosage plan during acute stress, in order to obtain the benefit of optimal outcome from the ongoing treatment schedule. This emphasizes the need for the parents of affected children to be empowered with adequate knowledge regarding such lifesaving therapy. AIMS & OBJECTIVES: This study was aimed to assess their knowledge regarding corticosteroid therapy. Materials and methods. Caretakers of children with CAH were recruited by using purposive sampling technique. Data was collected by using structured interview technique. RESULTS: It was observed that only 10% of study group had adequate knowledge about therapy and the majority of them were from rural areas, lacking in awareness of essential steps of management. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that these caretakers need to be given appropriately planned education regarding corticosteroids, drug actions, and the need for enhanced steroid dosage during stress situations. They should also be given relevant instructional materials to read for improving their knowledge about their child's disorder.