Cushing's syndrome Flashcards
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
A condition caused by chronic exposure to excess cortisol.
What is the most common cause of Cushing’s syndrome overall?
Exogenous use of corticosteroids.
What is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing’s syndrome?
Cushing’s disease (ACTH-secreting pituitary tumour).
What are the leading causes of death in people with Cushing’s syndrome?
Cardiovascular events, infection, and thromboembolism.
Name some clinical features of Cushing’s syndrome.
Proximal (near the centre of the body such as shoulders hips and thighs) muscle weakness, facial plethora, violaceous striae, easy bruising, recurrent infection, poor wound healing, osteoporosis.
What symptom combination in children may suggest Cushing’s syndrome?
Increased weight with linear growth deceleration.
How is exogenous Cushing’s syndrome managed?
Gradual tapering of glucocorticoids and monitoring for withdrawal symptoms.
What should be done if a patient experiences steroid withdrawal symptoms?
Resume a higher dose and taper more slowly.
What are first-line screening tests for suspected endogenous Cushing’s syndrome?
Overnight dexamethasone suppression test
24-hour urinary free cortisol
Late night salivary cortisol
What complications should be screened for in long-term follow-up of Cushing’s syndrome?
Hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes, osteoporosis, and psychiatric disorders.
What medication is licensed for the management of Cushing’s syndrome?
Metyrapone.
What medication is licensed for the treatment of endogenous Cushing’s syndrome?
Ketoconazole.
