Cushing syndrome occurs when the hormone cortisol stays higher than normal for a prolonged period. This page summarizes typical features, common complaints, the diagnostic approach and which medical specialties are usually involved. For personal diagnosis or treatment you should consult a healthcare professional.
Cushing syndrome describes a sustained excess of cortisol in the body. Causes include overproduction of ACTH by the pituitary gland (Cushing disease), cortisol-producing tumors of the adrenal glands, and prolonged use of corticosteroid medicines. Less commonly, ACTH may come from other tumors (ectopic ACTH). Identifying the underlying cause is key to planning further evaluation and follow-up.
Symptoms vary between people. Frequent findings include a rounder face (“moon face”), increased fat around the neck and abdomen, weight gain, muscle weakness in the arms and legs, thin and fragile skin with easy bruising, slow wound healing, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar and menstrual irregularities. Mood changes, sleep disturbance and increased fracture risk from bone loss can develop over time.
Diagnosis typically combines hormonal tests and imaging. Tests may include blood measurements, 24‑hour urinary free cortisol or late‑night salivary cortisol, and ACTH levels to distinguish sources. If an endogenous cause is suspected, imaging of the pituitary (MRI) or adrenals (CT or MRI) can help locate abnormalities. Which tests are appropriate depends on each clinical situation and should be decided by an endocrinologist.
Cushing syndrome usually develops gradually, but some complications may require prompt care. Seek immediate medical assessment if sudden severe headache, visual changes, very high blood pressure, rapidly worsening blood glucose control, sudden major muscle loss or other alarming new signs occur. In such cases contact emergency services or your local emergency department.
Evaluation and long‑term follow‑up are usually coordinated by an endocrinologist. Depending on the cause and findings, care may include neurosurgery, adrenal surgery, internal medicine, psychiatry, dermatology or osteoporosis specialists. Multidisciplinary input guides diagnosis, surveillance and supportive care; individual management plans are made by treating clinicians.
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