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Cushing's Syndrome - Exogenous
Alternate Names : Corticosteroid-Induced Cushing's Syndrome, Cushing's Syndrome - Corticosteroid Induced, Iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome
Definition
Exogenous Cushing's syndrome is a form of Cushing's syndrome caused by administration of glucocorticoid (also called corticosteroid) hormones, such as prednisone.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Cushing's syndrome is named after the surgeon Harvey Cushing. It is a group of clinical signs and symptoms caused by a chronic excess of glucocorticoids, which are hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Glucocorticoids affect many body functions and are essential for survival, but when the level of these hormones is too high, it can cause serious problems. The most important glucocorticoid is the "stress hormone" cortisol.
The pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain, regulates cortisol production by secreting a hormone called adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
Exogenous (i.e., caused by something outside the body) Cushing's syndrome is caused by administration of synthetic glucocorticoids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, for therapeutic purposes (for example, to treat asthma).
Endogenous (i.e., caused by something within the body) Cushing's syndrome may be caused by ACTH-producing tumors of the pituitary gland (a condition called Cushing's disease), malignant tumors of other organs that produce ACTH, and cortisol-producing tumors of one or both of the adrenal glands.
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• Definition
• Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Symptoms & Signs
• Prevention
• Diagnosis & Tests
• Treatment
• Prognosis
• Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
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Tests & Exams
• Glucose Test
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Other Topics
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• Central Nervous System
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• Confusion
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• Facial Swelling
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• Hump Behind the Shoulders
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• Obesity
• Thirst - Excessive
• Urination - Excessive Volume
• Weakness
• Weight Gain - Unintentional
Review Date : 11/3/2002
Reviewed By : Todd T. Brown, M.D., Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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