The Pathogenesis, Etiology, and Clinical Manifestation of Cushings Syndrome Essay Example

The Pathogenesis, Etiology, and Clinical Manifestation of Cushings Syndrome Paper Cushings syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure of the bodys tissues to high levels of cortisol. It is also called hypercortisolism. Cushings syndrome is relatively rare, commonly affecting adults aged 20 to 50. About 10 of every million people are affected every year. Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure and maintains the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. It is secreted by the adrenal glands (located above the two kidneys), under the control of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. Cortisol controls the tendency of the immune system to cause inflammations, particularly in joints, and also has a role in maintaining normal blood sugar levels, and regulates the utilization of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats by body tissues. Cortisol also plays a very significant role in allaying stress. Increased levels of cortisol are normally found in persons whose bodies are constantly subjected to stress, such as athletes and women in last months of pregnancy. People suffering from alcoholism, depression, malnutrition, and panic disorders also have elevated cortisol levels. Cushings syndrome can be caused by overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands, although this form of the syndrome is quite rare. This can be caused by a tumor of the pituitary gland that releases increased amounts of the hormone adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) into the blood. This causes the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol. Over 80% of persons with this form of the syndrome, known as Cushings disease, are women. The production of excess cortisol by the adrenal glands can also be caused by tumors on the adrenal glands themselves, which may be benign or cancerous. We will write a custom essay sample on The Pathogenesis, Etiology, and Clinical Manifestation of Cushings Syndrome specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Pathogenesis, Etiology, and Clinical Manifestation of Cushings Syndrome specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Pathogenesis, Etiology, and Clinical Manifestation of Cushings Syndrome specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Most of these cases involve non-cancerous tumors of adrenal tissue, called adrenal adenomas, which release excess cortisol into the blood. Persons with this form of the syndrome have an average age of 40. Tumors on other parts of the body can also cause the adrenal glands to produce extra cortisol. This condition is known as ectopic ACTH syndrome. Half of all cases are caused by lung tumors. Men comprise 75% of persons with this form of the syndrome. More commonly, the cause of Cushings syndrome is the prolonged intake of synthetic cortisol (hydrocortisone), which is usually taken to treat inflammation and allergies. Comparison of old and recent photographs will often show a significant difference in the appearance of persons with Cushings syndrome, particularly on the face and neck. A person with Cushings syndrome usually will experience rapid weight gain and will exhibit the peculiar characteristics of a rounded face, and with fat concentrated on the trunk and the face, with limbs remaining thin. Children with Cushings syndrome will also exhibit slow growth. Also, atrophy of the skin occurs; the skin bruises easily, and healing is slow. Other symptoms are: chronic weakness, high blood pressure, excessive sweating, excessive hair growth on the face, stretch marks on abdomen, thighs, breasts, and arms, infertility, reduced libido, irregular (or stopped) menstruation in females, and erectile dysfunction in males. Psychological disorders usually also manifest, such as depression, irritability, and panic attacks. A person with Cushings syndrome can also develop resistance to insulin, leading to diabetes. Routine laboratory tests on on persons with Cushings syndrome commonly include high white blood cell counts and high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, Cushings syndrome will cause continued fatigue, weakness of the muscles, osteoporosis (weakened bones), slow skin healing, and increased susceptibility to infections such as pneumonia and tuberculosis. References Raff, H. , PhD Findling, J. W. , MD (2003). A Physiologic Approach to Diagnosis of the Cushing Syndrome. Annals of Internal Medicine. 138(12):980-989. Paul Margulies, M. D. Cushings Syndrome: The Facts You Need to Know. National Adrenal Diseases Foundation. Retrieved February 14, 2006, from http://www. medhelp. org/nadf/diseases/cushings. htm