Dose-Responsive Effect of Epidural Triamicolone on Blood Glucose Concentration Profiles in Piglets

Background: Epidural steroid injection may have hyperglycemic effect but is rarely investigated. The aim of this study was to explore different doses of epidural triamicolone on blood glucose concentration change in piglet model. Materials and methods: We enrolled 24 piglets, weight 18 to 20 kg and randomly allocated into four groups. After general anesthesia induction and orotracheal intubation, each piglet underwent epidural injection of randomized regimen. The epidural triamicolone was injected for studied piglet, and the dose for piglet in group I, II and III were 1, 2 and 3mg/kg respectively. We also designed control group, of which piglets received epidural saline injection. Blood glucose was measured from peripheral arterial blood sample after induction and then every one hour for 4 hours. Blood glucose variations in % of baseline value were calculated and analyzed with analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Only group III showed significantly increased blood glucose concentration within study period. Group III had significantly higher glucose concentration (% of baseline) than control group during all study period. Group I and II had significantly higher glucose concentration (% of baseline) than control group at 120 and 180 min. Comparing with control group, the maximal magnitude of increase (%) was significantly in group I，II and III at 180 min (6.2±3.5%, 7.1±4.3% and 11.4±6.5% for Group I, II and III; -29.7± 11.5% for control group). Conclusion: Epidural triamicolone injection might not increase blood glucose level significantly in healthy piglets except in higher dose within study period. The data should be applicable carefully for diabetes subjects.