Cushing’s syndrome is a rare hormonal disorder caused by excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands. Symptoms include purple stretch marks, a fatty hump between the shoulders, central obesity, moon face, and hirsutism.
Dr. Pranav A Ghody, an Indian endocrinologist at Wockhardt Hospital, explains that cortisol regulates blood pressure, blood sugar, and inflammation. Prolonged excess cortisol leads to Cushing’s syndrome, categorized into two types:
Exogenous Cushing’s syndrome: The most common type, caused by external corticosteroid use for conditions like arthritis, asthma, and lupus.
Endogenous Cushing’s syndrome: A rarer type, caused by internal overproduction of cortisol due to tumors in the pituitary or adrenal glands. When linked to a pituitary tumor, it is termed Cushing’s disease.
Diagnosis involves measuring cortisol levels in blood, urine, or saliva, followed by imaging techniques like MRI, CT scans, or advanced procedures like IPSS. Treatment often includes surgery to remove the tumor, with some cases requiring repeat surgery, radiosurgery, or medication.
To prevent Cushing’s syndrome, doctors recommend careful use of glucocorticoids under medical supervision. Individuals with a family history of pituitary or adrenal tumors may benefit from genetic counseling and regular monitoring.
Source: Hindustan Times
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