Cushing's Syndrome

Dr. Anurag Shahi (AIIMS)MBBS,MD

November 30, 2018

March 06, 2020

Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's Syndrome

What is Cushing’s syndrome?

Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder, which occurs due to the imbalance of the hormone cortisol (higher than normal cortisol levels) in the body. Cortisol is termed as the “stress hormone” as its levels increase during periods of stress. It can be endogenous (caused by internal factors) or exogenous (caused by external factors). Variable estimates show that 40 to 70 individuals per million are affected by Cushing’s syndrome worldwide. Its incidence in India varies from 0.7 to 2.4 per million population annually as per several population studies.

What are its main signs and symptoms?

Clinical features may be variable and include the following:

In adults, Cushing’s syndrome usually occurs between the ages of 30 to 50 years but can also develop in children. The incidence of Cushing’s syndrome is much higher in women than men (3:1 female to male ratio). Some uncommonly seen features are:

Other diseases (differential diagnosis) that can have similar symptoms include:

What are its main causes?

The main cause that results in the development of this syndrome is the frequent use of high-dose cortisol, especially glucocorticoids. Cortisol is useful as it has the following functions:

  • Maintains blood pressure and blood glucose levels
  • Reduces inflammatory conditions
  • Converts food into usable energy within the body

However, an imbalance can result in abnormal levels of cortisol which can lead to complications in the long run. It can be endogenous or exogenous (use of oral corticosteroids for a long period).

Other causes include:

  • Pituitary gland tumours
  • Ectopic tumours that generate the hormone ACTH
  • Adrenal gland tumours

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis may mainly include:

  • Medical history.
  • Physical exam.
  • Lab tests.

Glucocorticoids are used mainly for anti-inflammatory, autoimmune, and neoplastic (tumour) diseases. Therefore, proper medication history of the patient is usually required. Other diagnostic tests that may be performed are:

  • A 24-hour urinary free cortisol (UFC).
  • Late night-salivary cortisol.
  • Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST).
  • Overnight dexamethasone suppression test (ONDST).
  • CT scan of the adrenal glands.

Tests to diagnose an underlying condition that may be the cause of Cushing syndrome include:

  • Corticotropin-releasing hormone test (CRH).
  • High-dose dexamethasone suppression test (HDDST).
  • Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS).

Treatment plan for Cushing’s syndrome includes:

  • Medical therapy: Depending on the underlying cause of this syndrome medications are given as follows.
    • To inhibit steroid production.
    • Glucocorticoid receptor inhibitors.
    • Modulate ACTH release.
    • Adrenolytic drugs.
    • If you have been taking cortisol, a lower dose is prescribed to reduce the symptoms.
  • Surgery:
    • Tumour surgery or removal of adrenal glands may be indicated.
  • Pituitary radiotherapy.

Self-care tips:

  • Follow the medication regimen prescribed by the physician.
  • Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, as they can cause more harm and may lead to complications.
  • Follow a well-balanced diet or consult a dietician.
  • Do regular low-intensity exercises, as there may be a risk of fractures while performing high-impact exercises or sports.
  • Avoid stress so that hyperproduction of cortisol is reduced.

Cushing’s syndrome can be managed if the above measures are followed judiciously and the physician is consulted as necessary.



References

  1. Susmeeta T Sharma. et al. Cushing’s syndrome: epidemiology and developments in disease management.Clin Epidemiol. 2015; 7: 281–293. PMID: 25945066
  2. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. [Internet]: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Cushing's Syndrome
  3. Ariacherry C. Ammini. et al. Etiology and clinical profile of patients with Cushing's syndrome: A single center experience. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2014 Jan-Feb; 18(1): 99–105. PMID: 24701438
  4. The Pituitary Society. [Internet]. Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles; Cushing's Syndrome & Disease - Symptoms
  5. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: US National Library of Medicine; Cushing's Syndrome

Doctors for Cushing's Syndrome

Dr. Narayanan N K Dr. Narayanan N K Endocrinology
16 Years of Experience
Dr. Tanmay Bharani Dr. Tanmay Bharani Endocrinology
15 Years of Experience
Dr. Sunil Kumar Mishra Dr. Sunil Kumar Mishra Endocrinology
23 Years of Experience
Dr. Parjeet Kaur Dr. Parjeet Kaur Endocrinology
19 Years of Experience
Consult a Doctor

Medicines for Cushing's Syndrome

Medicines listed below are available for Cushing's Syndrome. Please note that you should not take any medicines without doctor consultation. Taking any medicine without doctor's consultation can cause serious problems.

Medicine Name

Price

₹899.0

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