hormonal and metabolic disorders
Cushing Syndrome
Cushing disease
Cushing disease is a term given specifically to Cushing syndrome caused by overstimulation of the adrenal glands, usually because of a Enlargement of the Pituitary Gland . In this disorder, the adrenal glands are overactive because the pituitary gland is overstimulating them, and not because the adrenal glands are abnormal. Symptoms of Cushing disease are similar to those of Cushing syndrome. Cushing disease is diagnosed by blood tests, or sometimes also with tests of urine and saliva. Imaging tests such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) may be done of the pituitary gland area. Cushing disease is treated with surgery or radiation to remove the pituitary tumor. If removal of the pituitary tumor can't be done or is unsuccessful, the adrenal glands can be removed surgically, or drugs can be given to reduce ACTH production or block the production or effects of the excess cortisol on tissues. 