Cushing syndrome is abnormally high levels of a hormone called cortisol.
- weight gain, obesity
- fatty deposits, especially in the face (round "moon" face), between the shoulders, the upper back, and midsection
- stretch marks on the breasts, arms, abdomen, and thighs
- thinning skin that bruises easily
- cuts, insect bites, and infections that are slow to heal
- acne
- fatigue
- muscle weakness
- glucose intolerance
- increased thirst
- increased urination
- bone loss
- high blood pressure
- headache
- cognitive dysfunction
- anxiety, irritability
- depression
Laboratory tests that help with the diagnosis may include:
- 24-hour urinary free cortisol test
- Midnight plasma cortisol and late-night salivary cortisol measurements
- Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (lddst) (blood test)
- Computerized tomography scans or magnetic resonance imaging scans
Tests to help determine the cause may include:
- corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulation test
- high-dose dexamethasone suppression test (HDDST) (blood test)
- imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Treatments for Cushing syndrome are designed to lower the high level of cortisol in your body.
- Reducing corticosteroid use
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Medications
