Cushing syndrome is a condition characterized by prolonged exposure to excessive levels of the hormone cortisol in the body. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and is important for various bodily functions including stress response, metabolism, immune function, and blood pressure regulation. Normally, cortisol levels fluctuate throughout the day, but in Cushing syndrome, cortisol levels remain abnormally high over time. The syndrome can result from:
- Taking high doses of corticosteroid medications (exogenous cause).
- The body's own overproduction of cortisol due to tumors in the adrenal glands, pituitary gland (known as Cushing's disease), or other parts of the body.
Symptoms and signs of Cushing syndrome often include:
- Rapid weight gain, especially around the trunk and face, with thinning of the arms and legs.
- A round, red face often described as "moon face."
- Fat accumulation on the back of the neck ("buffalo hump").
- Purple or reddish stretch marks on the skin.
- Easy bruising, fragile skin that heals poorly.
- Muscle weakness and bone loss (osteoporosis).
- Increased hair growth, irregular menstruation or loss of periods in women.
- Mood changes such as depression, irritability, or anxiety.
- High blood pressure, insulin resistance leading to diabetes, and increased thirst and urination.
- Other effects include acne, headaches, cognitive difficulties, and reduced libido or fertility issues.
Causes can be from:
- Prolonged use of steroid medications.
- Benign tumors of the pituitary gland producing excess ACTH (Cushing's disease).
- Tumors of the adrenal glands producing excess cortisol.
- Ectopic ACTH production from tumors outside the pituitary.
Diagnosis involves measuring cortisol levels in urine, saliva, or blood, and tests to determine the source of cortisol overproduction. Treatment depends on the cause but may include gradually reducing steroid medications, surgery to remove tumors, radiation, or medications to control cortisol production. The syndrome is rare and most commonly affects adults aged 20 to 50, with women affected more frequently than men. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis can be good, but untreated Cushing syndrome may lead to serious complications including cardiovascular disease and increased mortality. In summary, Cushing syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by excessive cortisol that leads to a distinctive set of symptoms affecting the skin, body shape, metabolism, and mental health. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for recovery and reducing risks. This overview incorporates information from medical sources including Wikipedia, Mayo Clinic, NHS, and recent medical reviews on the condition.
