Which disease is commonly treated with corticosteroids?

Corticosteroids are commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the joints, causing pain, swelling, and potential joint damage. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and can alleviate symptoms, improving the quality of life for patients with rheumatoid arthritis. They may be used in various formulations, including systemic (oral or intravenous) or localized (injections into the joints).

The other conditions listed do not typically warrant the use of corticosteroids as a primary treatment. For example, hypertension is generally managed with antihypertensive medications, diabetes mellitus is treated with insulin or oral hypoglycemics, and heart failure is addressed with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or beta-blockers. Thus, the use of corticosteroids is specifically linked to the inflammatory processes seen in rheumatoid arthritis.