Cushing's disease is the specific form of Cushing's syndrome caused by an ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma (a benign tumor of the anterior pituitary). The excess ACTH overstimulates the adrenal cortices, leading to bilateral adrenal hyperplasia and excessive cortisol production. Symptoms include central obesity, moon face, buffalo hump, purple striae, thin skin, easy bruising, muscle weakness, hypertension, glucose intolerance or diabetes, osteoporosis, and psychological changes. It is distinct from other causes of Cushing's syndrome, such as adrenal tumors (which produce cortisol independently) or ectopic ACTH production by tumors elsewhere (like small cell lung cancer). Diagnosis involves elevated ACTH and cortisol levels that do not suppress with a high-dose dexamethasone suppression test. Treatment is typically transsphenoidal surgical removal of the pituitary tumor.

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Zambia

• Joseph Soko – 101 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies