3-rx.comCustomer Support
3-rx.com
   
HomeAbout UsFAQContactHelp
News Center
Health Centers
Medical Encyclopedia
Drugs & Medications
Diseases & Conditions
Medical Symptoms
Med. Tests & Exams
Surgery & Procedures
Injuries & Wounds
Diet & Nutrition
Special Topics



\"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>






You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Cushing's Syndrome
      Category : Health Centers > Endocrine Disorders

Cushing's Syndrome

Alternate Names : Hypercortisolism

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder that occurs when the body tissues are exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol. The adrenal glands produce cortisol. Cushing's disease is the most common type of Cushing's syndrome. It is caused by a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland.

What is going on in the body?

Cushing's syndrome occurs when body tissues are exposed to high levels of cortisol for a long time. Cortisol is an important hormone that regulates many body functions, including stress management. A part of the brain known as the hypothalamus sends CRH, a hormone, to the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland then produces another hormone called ACTH. The ACTH then stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. The hypothalamus and pituitary monitor blood levels of cortisol. They adjust their hormone release as needed. This maintains a normal balance of cortisol.

Sometimes the cortisol balance in the body is thrown off. The person may have excess cortisol under the following conditions:

  • he or she takes glucocorticoid medicines, such as prednisone, for a long time
  • tumors of the pituitary gland produce excess ACTH
  • tumors outside the pituitary secrete ACTH
  • abnormalities, including tumors, of the adrenal glands cause excess cortisol production
  • What are the causes and risks of the disease?

    Cushing's syndrome occurs when body tissues are exposed to high levels of cortisol over a long period of time. These high levels may be caused by:

  • certain cancerous or noncancerous tumors of the lung, thyroid, pancreas, or ovary. These tumors produce a form of Cushing's syndrome known as ectopic ACTH syndrome.
  • disorders of the adrenal glands
  • familial Cushing's syndrome, which involves tumors of one or more endocrine glands
  • pituitary adenoma, a noncancerous tumor that causes Cushing's disease
  • prolonged use of glucocorticoid medicines, such as prednisone
  • tumors of the adrenal glands, which may be cancerous or noncancerous

  •    

    Next section

       

    Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Bill Harrison, MD
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 06/04/01



    \"$alt_text\"');"); } else { echo"\"$alt_text\""; } ?>





    Home | About Us | FAQ | Contact | Advertising Policy | Privacy Policy | Bookmark Site