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Cushing’s Syndrome

What is Cushing’s syndrome?

  • Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by high levels of cortisol in the body for a long time.
  • Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
  • The condition occurs when the body produces too much cortisol or from long-term steroid medication use.

Symptoms of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Weight gain (especially abdomen)
  • Rounded face (“moon face”)
  • Fat buildup between shoulders (“buffalo hump”)
  • Thin arms and legs
  • Purple or pink stretch marks
  • Easy bruising and thin skin
  • Muscle weakness
  • Fatigue
  • High blood pressure, High blood sugar or diabetes

Causes of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Pituitary gland tumors
  • Adrenal gland tumors
  • Tumors producing ACTH outside pituitary

Diagnosis of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Blood tests
  • Urine cortisol test
  • Saliva cortisol test
  • Dexamethasone suppression test
  • Imaging scans (MRI or CT) to find tumors

Complications of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Osteoporosis (weak bones)
  • High blood pressure, High Blood Sugar
  • Blood clots, Infections
  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Memory and mood problems

Treatment of Cushing’s Syndrome

  • Medication Adjustment: Reduce or stop steroid medicines
  • Medications: Drugs that reduce cortisol production
  • Surgery: Removal of pituitary or adrenal tumors
  • Radiation Therapy: Used when surgery is not fully effective
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