Cushing Syndrome
Why in News?
- Recent coverage (March 2026) links to new podcasts and articles distinguishing it from stress-related high cortisol, amid ongoing clinical trial updates.
About Cushing Syndrome
- Rare condition from excess cortisol (stress hormone) affecting body functions.
- Differs from Cushing's disease (specific pituitary tumor cause).​
- Exogenous: Long-term corticosteroid use (e.g., for asthma, arthritis).
- Endogenous: Pituitary tumors (ACTH excess), adrenal tumors, or ectopic ACTH tumors.​
- Less common: Adrenal carcinoma or nodular hyperplasia.​
- Weight gain (central obesity, buffalo hump, moon face).​
- Skin changes (thin skin, bruising, purple stretch marks).​
- Muscle weakness, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, mood changes.​
- In kids: Obesity, slow growth.​
Treatment
- Surgery: Remove pituitary/adrenal tumors (first-line).​
- Medications: Cortisol inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, relacorilant, pasireotide).​
- Radiation or bilateral adrenalectomy for resistant cases.​
Complications
- Infections, blood clots, diabetes, heart disease, fractures.​
- Mental health issues (depression, anxiety).​
