Cushing syndrome

Cushing syndrome

Disorder named for Harvey Williams Cushing, caused by adrenal cortex overactivity. If caused by a pituitary gland tumour, it is called Cushing disease. Symptoms include obesity of the trunk and face (“moon face”), muscle wasting, high blood pressure, easy bruising, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, and fat between the shoulders (“buffalo hump”). Excess glucocorticoid hormones, whether produced by the adrenal gland or given as drugs, cause the symptoms, which are treated by surgery, radiation, cortisol-blocking drugs, or ending of glucocorticoid treatment. Cortisol treatment may be necessary after surgery.