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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > C > Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Hypercortisolism

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the disorder. In Cushing's syndrome caused by drug therapy with corticosteroids, the drug must be slowly decreased under medical supervision.

In Cushing's disease caused by a pituitary tumor, surgery to remove the tumor is recommended. Sometimes, radiation is needed as well. Hydrocortisone (cortisol) replacement therapy is needed after surgery, and sometimes forever.


Cushing's syndrome caused by an adrenal tumor is usually treated by surgical removal of the tumor. If the tumor cannot be removed, certain medications can suppress the secretion of cortisol.

In Cushing's syndrome caused by a tumor secreting ACTH, resection of the tumor is the best way to treat the Cushing's syndrome.

Cortisol replacement therapy is indicated after surgery until cortisol production resumes. In some cases, life-long therapy with cortisone drugs becomes necessary.

Prognosis

Tumor removal may lead to full recovery, but there is a chance of recurrence. Survival for people with ectopic tumors depends upon the overall outcome associated with the particular tumor type. Untreated, Cushing's syndrome can lead to death.

Complications

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Call your health care provider if symptoms develop that indicate Cushing's syndrome.

Ency. home > Disease > C > Cushing's syndrome

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