Cushing's syndrome: An in-depth review of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and manifestations

https://doi.org/10.53730/ijhs.v5nS1.15303

Authors

  • Farah Saeed Alfawaz KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Mona Mudlah Alsaadi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Suhoud Saud Alotaibi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Nouf Ayed Al Anazi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Areej Bader Alotaibi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Ibrahim Muhammad Al-Arej KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Abdullatif Suliman Alsayegh KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Mohammed Abdullah Alduaybi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Meshal Ibrahim Zaid Al Owias KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Ahmed Abdulkarim Sulaiman Alnughaymishi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Hamad Fahad Hamad Aldawsari KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Asma Saad Alqahtani KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Bader Sayah Alanezi KSA, National Guard Health Affairs
  • Abdullah Abdulrahman Al-Shuwayman KSA, National Guard Health Affairs

Keywords:

Cushing's syndrome, glucocorticoids, ACTH-dependent, ACTH-independent, diagnosis, treatment options

Abstract

Background: Cushing's syndrome results from prolonged exposure to elevated glucocorticoids, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Despite its historical identification over a century ago, challenges remain in diagnosing and treating this condition due to its non-specific symptoms and complex underlying mechanisms. Aim: This review aims to elucidate the pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options for Cushing's syndrome to enhance clinician understanding and improve patient outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, synthesizing data on the etiology, classification, and epidemiology of Cushing's syndrome. The review categorized Cushing's syndrome into ACTH-dependent and ACTH-independent forms, highlighting diagnostic challenges and therapeutic strategies, including surgical, medical, and radiation options. Results: The findings reveal that Cushing's syndrome predominantly arises from either endogenous factors (e.g., pituitary adenomas, ectopic ACTH production) or exogenous glucocorticoid use. ACTH-dependent Cushing's disease accounts for the majority of cases, particularly in women aged 25-40. The review also identifies key diagnostic tools, including biochemical tests and imaging studies, and discusses the importance of recognizing both overt and subtle clinical presentations. Conclusion: Cushing's syndrome remains a complex endocrine disorder requiring a multifaceted approach for accurate diagnosis and effective management. 

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Published

15-01-2021

How to Cite

Alfawaz, F. S., Alsaadi, M. M., Alotaibi, S. S., Al Anazi, N. A., Alotaibi, A. B., Al-Arej, I. M., Alsayegh, A. S., Alduaybi, M. A., Al Owias, M. I. Z., Alnughaymishi, A. A. S., Aldawsari, H. F. H., Alqahtani, A. S., Alanezi, B. S., & Al-Shuwayman, A. A. (2021). Cushing’s syndrome: An in-depth review of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and manifestations. International Journal of Health Sciences, 5(S1), 1388–1402. https://doi.org/10.53730/ijhs.v5nS1.15303

Issue

Vol. 5 No. S1 (2021)

Section

Peer Review Articles
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