Hypercortisolism
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What is Cushing's Syndrome?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsWhat is Cushing's Syndrome?
Cushing's syndrome, also called hypercortisolism, is a rare endocrine disorder caused by chronic exposure of the body's tissues to excess levels of cortisol - a hormone naturally
produced by the adrenal gland. Exposure to too much cortisol can occur from long-term use of synthetic glucocorticoid hormones
to treat inflammatory illnesses. Pituitary adenomas (benign tumors of the pituitary gland) that secrete increased amounts
of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone, a substance that controls the release of cortisol) can also spur overproduction of cortisol. Tumors of the adrenal gland
and ectopic ACTH syndrome (a condition in which ACTH is produced by various types of potentially malignant tumors that occur
in different parts of the body) can cause similar problems with cortisol balance. Common symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include
upper body obesity, severe fatigue and muscle weakness, high blood pressure, backache, elevated blood sugar, easy bruising,
and bluish-red stretch marks on the skin. In women, there may be increased growth of facial and body hair, and menstrual periods
may become irregular or stop completely. Neurological symptoms include difficulties with memory and neuromuscular disorders.
Is there any treatment?
Treatment of Cushing's syndrome depends on the cause of excess cortisol. If the cause is long-term use of a medication being
used to treat another disorder, the physician may reduce the dosage until symptoms are under control. Surgery or radiotherapy
may be used to treat pituitary adenomas. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these may
be used to treat ectopic ACTH syndrome. The aim of surgical treatment is to cure hypercortisolism by removing the tumor while
minimizing the chance of endocrine deficiency or long-term dependence on medications.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for those with Cushing's syndrome varies depending on the cause of the disease. Most cases of Cushing's syndrome
can be cured. Many individuals with Cushing's syndrome show significant improvement with treatment, although some may find
recovery complicated by various aspects of the causative illness. Some kinds of tumors may recur.
What research is being done?
NINDS supports research on Cushing's syndrome aimed at finding new ways to diagnose, treat, and cure the disorder.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
Prepared by:
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
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Last updated February 12, 2007
