Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder that results from prolonged exposure of the body's tissues to excessive levels of the hormone cortisol, which normally helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and the body's stress response. Excess cortisol can arise from the body's own overproduction, most often due to a tumour of the pituitary gland that drives excessive cortisol production from the adrenal glands, or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications prescribed for other conditions, which is actually the most common overall cause. Chronic cortisol excess produces a distinctive pattern of physical changes, including central weight gain, thinning skin, and muscle weakness, alongside significant risks including elevated blood pressure, diabetes, and bone loss if the condition remains untreated. Diagnosis can be challenging since some features overlap with more common conditions, often requiring specific hormone testing and imaging to confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying source. Treatment aims to normalise cortisol levels by addressing the specific underlying cause, which often leads to significant improvement in symptoms.

The most common symptoms include: Weight gain particularly around the face; neck; and abdomen; thinning and easily bruised skin. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

No, Cushing's Syndrome is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

Treatment options include: Treatment for corticosteroid-induced Cushing's syndrome involves gradually reducing the medication dose under medical supervision to the lowest effective level while managing the original condition it was treating. Cushing's syndrome caused by a pituitary or adrenal tumour is typically treated with surgical removal of the tumour; which often resolves the excess cortisol production. Medications that reduce cortisol production or block its effects may be used when surgery is not possible or as a bridge to definitive treatment; alongside management of related complications such as diabetes and hypertension.. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Endocrinology & Diabetology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Cushing's Syndrome cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Using the lowest effective dose of corticosteroid medications for the shortest necessary duration when prescribed for other conditions; never stopping long-term corticosteroids abruptly without medical guidance; prompt evaluation of suggestive symptoms to allow early diagnosis of hormone-producing tumours.

Consult a Endocrinology & Diabetology specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.