Cushing's disease: a multidisciplinary overview of the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment

J Med Life. 2016 Jan-Mar;9(1):12-18.

Abstract

Cushing's disease is considered a rare condition characterized by the hypersecretion of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) due to a pituitary adenoma that ultimately causes endogenous hypercortisolism by stimulating the adrenal glands. The clinical signs suggesting Cushing's disease, such as obesity, moon face, hirsutism, and facial plethora are already present on presentation. Endogenous hypercortisolism is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic manifestations, as well as respiratory disorders, psychiatric complications, osteoporosis and infections, leading to high rates of morbidity and mortality. It is vital to diagnose Cushing's disease as early as possible and to implement a treatment plan to lead to a successful prognosis and a low number of complications. The goal of this article was to review the clinical, diagnostic and treatment aspects of Cushing's disease using the most recent available guidelines.

Keywords: ACTH hypersecretion; Cushing’s disease; adrenocorticotropic hormone; corticotrophin-releasing hormone; pituitary adenoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pituitary ACTH Hypersecretion / diagnosis
  • Pituitary ACTH Hypersecretion / pathology*
  • Pituitary ACTH Hypersecretion / therapy