inhaled corticosteroid
Also written as: ICS — inhaled corticosteroid
A topically acting anti-inflammatory steroid drug delivered by inhalation to reduce airway inflammation in pediatric asthma and other chronic respiratory conditions.
Full Definition
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the cornerstone of long-term controller therapy in pediatric asthma and include agents such as fluticasone, budesonide, and beclomethasone. They act locally on airway mucosa to reduce eosinophilic inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. In editorial contexts, 'inhaled corticosteroid' is hyphenated as a compound modifier before a noun (e.g., 'inhaled-corticosteroid therapy') but not in predicative use. The abbreviation ICS is acceptable after first use. Editors must not confuse ICS with oral corticosteroids (OCS) or systemic steroids, which carry different risk profiles and are used for acute exacerbations rather than maintenance.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as a compound modifier before a noun: 'inhaled-corticosteroid regimen.' Do not hyphenate predicatively. ICS is acceptable after first use.
In Context
- "The guideline recommended stepping up inhaled corticosteroid dosing before adding a long-acting bronchodilator in children with uncontrolled moderate persistent asthma." — Clinical guideline editing
- "The author inconsistently used 'ICS' before defining the acronym; the editor added the full form 'inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)' at first mention." — Journal manuscript copy-editing