Cushing's Syndrome (Cont.)

Causes of Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing's syndrome can be caused by taking glucocorticoid hormones, such as prednisone, for:
 
Other people may develop Cushing's syndrome as a result of an overproduction of cortisol by the body. Some of the common causes of Cushing's syndrome in which the body produces too much cortisol include:
 
  • Pituitary adenomas
  • Adrenal tumors
  • Ectopic ACTH syndrome
  • Familial Cushing's syndrome.
     
(Click Cushing's Syndrome Causes for more information.)
 

Symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome

Too much cortisol in the body for long periods of time is responsible for the classic Cushing's syndrome symptoms. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome may vary based on the person's age.
 
Common symptoms of Cushing's syndrome can include:
 
  • Extreme weight gain, especially around the midsection and upper back
  • Excess hair growth
  • Purplish-pink stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, and breasts
  • Acne
  • High blood pressure
  • Skin problems
  • Growth retardation
  • Either very early or very late puberty
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Muscle weakness
  • Menstrual disorders in women
  • Osteoporosis
  • Moodiness, irritability, or depression
  • Diabetes
  • Decreased fertility in men
  • Diminished or absent desire for sex.
     
(Cushing's Syndrome Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD