Causes Of Cushing's Syndrome

Pituitary Gland Tumor

Located at the base of the brain, the pituitary gland is a pea-sized organ gland that is part of the endocrine system. This gland manufactures many hormones used for various functions throughout the body including the adrenocorticotropic hormone, abbreviated as ACTH. This hormone instructs the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. When a pituitary gland tumor is present, it causes the pituitary gland to make too much ACTH, and this leads to an overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands. After corticosteroid use, pituitary tumors are the second-highest cause for the development of Cushing's syndrome. These tumors can frequently be removed with specialist microscopic surgery, and tumor removals are successful in ninety percent of cases when performed by an experienced surgeon. Following the surgery, cortisol medicine is prescribed for several months. In cases where surgery is not possible, radiation therapy can often be helpful.

Continue reading to reveal how another condition can lead to Cushing's syndrome.