Cushing's syndrome is a pathological condition caused by excessive cortisol secretion from the adrenal cortex or prolonged treatment with glucocorticoids. Specialists in Israel select treatment based on the underlying cause of the syndrome. This may involve prescribing steroidogenesis inhibitors, discontinuing glucocorticoid therapy, or surgical treatment of adrenal tumors.
Causes
The causes of excess cortisol in the body may include:
- the use of glucocorticoid hormones for the treatment of asthma, arthritis, or to reduce immunity after transplantation surgeries
- pituitary adenoma that secretes large amounts of ACTH, which stimulates cortisol secretion
- ectopic ACTH syndrome – this condition is characterized by the secretion of ACTH by malignant tumors of various organs (lungs, pancreas, etc.)
- adrenal tumors – mostly benign, but accompanied by increased cortisol secretion from the adrenal glands.
Symptoms of Cushing's Syndrome
Patients with hypercortisolism typically experience obesity as a common accompanying condition. This is one of the first signs of the disease even in its early stages. Obesity affects the torso, face, and neck, while the limbs become thin. In children and adolescents, significant growth retardation is characteristic. Symptoms of the disease include thinning skin and bruising. Stretch marks of pink or purple color may appear on the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and chest. Women with this condition may exhibit excessive hair growth on the face, neck, and chest. Menstrual cycles may be disrupted or may cease altogether. Men often report decreased libido.
Diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome in Israel
At the first stage, specialists in Israel aim to identify elevated cortisol levels. To this end, a 24-hour urine cortisol test is conducted. Once the fact of elevated cortisol levels is established, it is necessary to determine the exact localization of the process that led to increased cortisol secretion. Ultrasound of the adrenal glands, tomography, or MRI is performed for visualization of the endocrine glands. The site of ACTH production is established.
Treatment of Cushing's Syndrome in Israel
Based on the cause of elevated cortisol levels, endocrinologists in Israel may recommend surgical, radiation, or medical treatment methods. In cases of prolonged glucocorticoid use, dose adjustment is necessary, gradually reducing it to the lowest possible level. If the cause of excess cortisol is a pituitary adenoma, surgical removal of the tumor using endoscopic instruments is usually performed. If surgical treatment is not possible for any reason, radiation therapy is applied, which typically lasts up to 6 weeks.