Cushing's syndrome is also known as hypercortisolism. It is a disease caused by the adrenal cortex producing excessive glucocorticoids. Typical symptoms include round face like a full moon and thin limbs. The first symptom of the disease is obesity. The obesity is called central obesity because the fat accumulates on the head and trunk but not limbs. There are purple stripes in the lower abdomen and inner thighs. Face was red (filled with blood). Female patients have irregular periods or no period at all. Male patients have low sex drive. The disease can also cause high blood pressure, osteoporosis and occasionally diabetes. The purpose of treatment is to remove the cause by reducing the excessive glucocorticoids while protecting the pituitary and adrenal function. Usually pituitary microadenomas and adrenal tumors are removed surgically.
How is Cushing's syndrome treated in practice?