Immune system * Reduce functions and numbers of T and B cells and other lymphocytes and macrophages * Cause atrophy of the lymph nodes and the thymus gland, and increase the incidence of infections by opportunistic pathogens * Increase the incidence of cancer * Alter lymphocytes * Suppress the body’s reaction to antigens (foreign invaders) and decrease access of lymph cells to antigens at sites of inflammation * Increase the incidence of lymphoma * Reduce the release of monocytes and macrophages from bone marrow and their numbers in circulation * Decrease the body’s ability to clear itself of bacteria or fungi * Cause death of leucocytes.

Adrenal glands * Cause adrenal insufficiency.

Respiratory system * Inhaled steroid aerosols (such as Beclovet) increase infections with Candida albicans and/or Aspergillus niger in the mouth and pharynx and, occasionally, in the larynx. A positive culture for oral Candida may be present in up to 75 per cent of patients.

Skin * Cause delay in wound-healing * Cause a variety of skin changes, including acneform eruptions, atrophy, stretch marks * Increase the risk of bacterial, yeast and fungal skin infections * Increase the incidence of Kaposi's sarcoma.

Muscle and bone * Cause muscle weakness and bone disorders * Interfere with growth of bone, muscle and other tissues.