Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a rare disorder that occurs when the body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol for an extended period of time. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including the use of corticosteroid medications or a tumor in the pituitary gland. The condition can cause a range of symptoms, including weight gain, muscle weakness, and mood changes.

Causes

The most common cause of Cushing's syndrome is the use of corticosteroid medications, which are often used to treat conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. In some cases, Cushing's syndrome can also be caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland or adrenal gland, which leads to an overproduction of cortisol.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but typically include weight gain, particularly in the face, neck, and upper body, muscle weakness, thinning skin, and increased risk of infections. Other symptoms may include high blood pressure, mood changes, and changes in menstrual periods in women.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome typically involves a physical examination, as well as a review of the patient's medical history and symptoms. Blood tests may also be performed to measure cortisol levels, and imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be used to detect any tumors in the pituitary gland or adrenal gland.

Treatment

Treatment of Cushing's syndrome typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve tapering off of corticosteroid medications, or surgery to remove any tumors that may be present. In some cases, medications may also be prescribed to help regulate cortisol levels.

Also see

• Cushing%2527s_syndrome (WikiMD)
• Cushing%2527s_syndrome (Wikipedia)

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