Diseases
cushing syndrome
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Left untreated, Cushing syndrome can result in exaggerated facial roundness, weight gain around the midsection and upper back, thinning of the arms and legs, easy bruising, and stretch marks. Cushing syndrome occurs when your body has too much of the hormone cortisol over time.
Symptoms
- weight gain and fatty tissue deposits
- pink or purple stretch marks (striae) on the skin of the abdomen
- thinning, fragile skin that bruises easily
- slow healing of cuts, insect bites and infections
- acne
Causes
- too much of the hormone cortisol in your body causes cushing syndrome. cortisol, which is produced in the adrenal glands, plays a variety of roles in your body.
- a pituitary gland tumor (pituitary adenoma).
- an acth-secreting tumor.
Risk factors
- diabetes mellitus.
- high blood pressure.
- serious infections.
Diagnosis
- imaging tests.
- urine and blood tests.
- saliva test
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is cushing syndrome?
Left untreated, Cushing syndrome can result in exaggerated facial roundness, weight gain around the midsection and upper back, thinning of the arms and legs, easy bruising, and stretch marks. Cushing syndrome occurs when your body has too much of the hormone cortisol over time.
What are the symptoms of cushing syndrome?
weight gain and fatty tissue deposits, pink or purple stretch marks (striae) on the skin of the abdomen, thinning, fragile skin that bruises easily, slow healing of cuts, insect bites and infections, acne
What causes cushing syndrome?
too much of the hormone cortisol in your body causes cushing syndrome. cortisol, which is produced in the adrenal glands, plays a variety of roles in your body.; a pituitary gland tumor (pituitary adenoma).; an acth-secreting tumor.
Which medicines are used for cushing syndrome?
metyrapone, mifepristone
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