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).
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