Cushing’s Disease Basics

Cushing’s Disease is a rare condition caused by excessive production of cortisol, a hormone essential for various bodily functions 12. It is a specific form of Cushing’s Syndrome, where the overproduction of cortisol is due to a tumor in the pituitary gland 5.

The condition affects 10 to 15 people per million each year, predominantly women between the ages of 20 and 50 5.

Symptoms develop gradually and can include:

1. Weight gain, especially in the trunk, face, and between the shoulders (buffalo hump) 1, 2
2. Thin arms and legs 2
3. Round, reddened face (moon face) 2
4. Purple stretch marks on the skin 2
5. Muscle weakness and bone loss 2
6. Mood changes, including depression and irritability 2

Diagnosis involves various tests, including 24-hour urinary cortisol measurement, blood tests, and imaging scans like CT or MRI, 6.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include surgery to remove the pituitary tumor, radiation therapy, or medications to reduce cortisol’s effects on the body 4.

If left untreated, Cushing’s Disease can lead to serious complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and increased risk of infections 2. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the condition and improving the patient’s quality of life 24 

Citations:

1. https://www.pituitary.org.uk/information/cushings-disease/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cushing-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351310
3. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000348.htm
4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cushings-syndrome/
5. https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/cushings-syndrome-and-cushing-disease
6. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/cushing-syndrome
7. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/cushings-syndrome
8. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5497-cushing-syndrome