Final answer:
The most commonly associated condition with long-term use of corticosteroids is Cushing's syndrome, which features symptoms like obesity, hypertension, and a moon face appearance. Corticosteroids suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infections like strongyloidiasis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition most commonly associated with the long-term administration of corticosteroids is Cushing's syndrome. This disorder occurs when there is an excessive amount of glucocorticoid hormones, such as cortisol, in the body. Prolonged exposure to corticosteroids, whether through medication or a pituitary tumor inducing overproduction, can result in various signs and symptoms like obesity, hypertension, osteoporosis, and the characteristic 'moon face' appearance due to fat deposits. Long-term corticosteroid use suppresses the immune system, elevates blood glucose levels, and may increase skin fragility leading to stretch marks.
The suppression of the immune system by corticosteroids can lead to an increased risk of severe infections like strongyloidiasis, particularly in patients with underlying conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These drugs work by reducing the inflammatory response, which, while beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune diseases, can also diminish the body's ability to fight off infections effectively when used over a prolonged period.