4 Interesting Facts of Cushing Syndrome
- Condition of pathologic excess of glucocorticoids due to pituitary, adrenal, or other unusual tumors
- Cushing syndrome can cause fine excess hair along the face and chin, mimicking some features of hirsutism seen in women with nonclassic congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- However, Cushing syndrome is more likely when there are a large number of signs and symptoms with high discriminatory index (eg, proximal myopathy, facial plethora, violaceous striae, bruising)
- 24-hour urinary free cortisol, late-night salivary cortisol, or a 1-mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test are reasonable screening methods
- Results suggestive of Cushing syndrome that require further investigation are: increased 24-hour urinary free cortisol, inappropriately elevated late-night salivary cortisol, and unsuppressed morning serum cortisol after dexamethasone
- Testing and interpretation of these tests is usually complex; referral to endocrinologist is recommended
