Cushing’s Syndrome

Cushing’s Syndrome Latest News

Recent studies have reported expanding treatment options for Cushing’s syndrome.

About Cushing’s Syndrome

• It is a disorder that occurs when your body makes too much of the hormone cortisol over a long period of time.
  • Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and helps control blood pressure, metabolism, immunity, and the body’s response to stress.
• Cause: The most common cause is long-term use of steroid medicines prescribed for asthma, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, or after organ transplants.
  • The body produces excess cortisol on its own. This is usually due to a non-cancerous tumour in the pituitary gland (called Cushing’s disease).

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Signs and Symptoms

• Weight gain especially around the abdomen and face and develop fat buildup between the shoulders.
• The skin becomes thin and bruises easily. Wounds may heal slowly. Wide purple stretch marks can appear on the abdomen, thighs, breasts, or arms.
• Acne and increased facial or body hair (especially in women) can also occur.
• Women may notice irregular or absent periods, while men may experience reduced libido or fertility issues.
• Many people develop high blood pressure and high blood sugar, and some develop diabetes.
• Bone loss can lead to osteoporosis and fractures.
• Anxiety, irritability, depression, mood swings, sleeps problems and memory problems.
• Risks: Women are more commonly affected than men in naturally occurring (endogenous) cases, especially between ages 30 and 50.

Treatment for Cushing’s Syndrome 

• Treatment depends on the cause and aims to bring cortisol levels back to normal.
• If steroid medicines are the cause, doctors slowly reduce the dose under supervision.
• If a tumour is causing excess cortisol, surgery is usually the first treatment.

Source: TH