Steroid vs. Corticosteroid — What's the Difference?

A steroid is a biologically active organic compound with four rings arranged in a specific molecular configuration. Steroids have two principal biological functions: as important components of cell membranes which alter membrane fluidity; and as signaling molecules.

Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that are produced in the adrenal cortex of vertebrates, as well as the synthetic analogues of these hormones. Two main classes of corticosteroids, glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, are involved in a wide range of physiological processes, including stress response, immune response, and regulation of inflammation, carbohydrate metabolism, protein catabolism, blood electrolyte levels, and behavior.Some common naturally occurring steroid hormones are cortisol (C21H30O5), corticosterone (C21H30O4), cortisone (C21H28O5) and aldosterone (C21H28O5).

Any of numerous fat-soluble organic compounds that have a core structure of 17 carbon atoms arranged in four rings, found naturally in animals, plants, and fungi, or produced synthetically. Steroids include the sterols (such as cholesterol), sex hormones (such as estrogen and testosterone), corticosteroid hormones (such as cortisol), bile acids, and anabolic steroids.

Any of a group of steroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex or made synthetically. There are two kinds: glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. They have various metabolic functions and some are used to treat inflammation.

(Informal) An anabolic steroid.

Any of the steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex or their synthetic equivalents, including the glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, and the mineralocorticoids, such as aldosterone. Also called adrenocorticosteroid.

A class of organic compounds having a structure of 17 carbon atoms arranged in four rings; they are lipids, and occur naturally as sterols, bile acids, adrenal and sex hormones, and some vitamins; many drugs are synthetic steroids.

(steroid hormone) Any of a group of steroid hormones, secreted by the adrenal cortex, that are involved in a large range of physiological systems.

Any anabolic hormone used to promote muscle growth or athletic performance.

Any of several synthetic hormones of related structure.

Any of several fat-soluble organic compounds having as a basis 17 carbon atoms in four rings; many have important physiological effects

A steroid compound produced by the adrenal cortex, or a synthetic analog of such a compound.

Any hormone affecting the development and growth of sex organs

A steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex or synthesized; administered as drugs they reduce swelling and decrease the body's immune response;