Spotlight Video | All About Cushing Disease | Sabrina M-Y Rene, MD, FACE
Dr. Sabrina Rene is a radiologist practicing in Newnan, GA. Dr. Rene specializes in diagnosing and treating injuries and diseases using medical imaging techniques such as X-Rays, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography exams. These techniques offer accurate visibility to the inside of the patients body and help... more
Understanding Cushing Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Cushing disease is a condition where the pituitary gland releases too much ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), leading to excessive production of cortisol, the body's main stress hormone. This can happen due to a benign tumor (adenoma) in the pituitary gland, located at the brain's base. The resulting high cortisol levels impact the body's metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure.
Key Symptoms of Cushing Disease
People with Cushing disease may experience:
- Upper body obesity with thin arms and legs
- Round, red face ("moon face")
- Purple stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, or upper arms
- Muscle weakness and bone pain
- Mental changes such as anxiety or depression
- Women may notice excess hair growth and irregular periods, while men may experience low libido.
Diagnosing and Treating Cushing Disease
Doctors diagnose Cushing disease through tests like a 24-hour urine cortisol test, blood ACTH levels, and brain imaging (MRI). If confirmed, surgery to remove the pituitary tumor is often the first step. If surgery isn’t fully effective, additional treatments like radiation or medication to block cortisol production may be required.
Complications and When to Seek Help
Without treatment, Cushing disease can lead to severe complications, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and bone fractures. If you notice symptoms or have had a pituitary tumor removed in the past, consult your doctor for further evaluation and care.
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