American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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What is the most potent steroid listed in the context of steroid potency?

Dexamethasone
Hydrocortisone
Methylprednisone
Prednisone

The correct answer is: Dexamethasone

Dexamethasone is considered the most potent steroid among those listed due to its high anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is a synthetic glucocorticoid that is used in a variety of medical conditions, including severe allergies, asthma, and autoimmune disorders. The potency of corticosteroids is generally measured by their relative anti-inflammatory effects and how effectively they bind to glucocorticoid receptors. Dexamethasone has a significantly higher binding affinity for these receptors compared to the other steroids mentioned, which translates to a more potent effect at lower dosages. This characteristic allows dexamethasone to be effective in treating conditions that require aggressive suppression of inflammation or immune response with minimal side effects at therapeutic doses.