Health's Book

Definition

Cushing syndrome is a disorder that occurs when your body is exposed to high levels of the hormone cortisol. It may also occur if you take too much cortisol or other steroid hormones.

See also: Cushing's disease (pituitary Cushing's)

Symptoms

Most people with Cushing syndrome will have:

* Upper body obesity (above the waist) and thin arms and legs
* Round, red, full face (moon face)
* Slow growth rate in children

Skin changes that are often seen:

* Acne or skin infections
* Purple marks (1/2 inch or more wide) called striae on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, and breasts
* Thin skin with easy bruising

Muscle and bone changes include:

* Backache, which occurs with routine activities
* Bone pain or tenderness
* Collection of fat between the shoulders (buffalo hump)
* Thinning of the bones, which leads to rib and spine fractures
* Weak muscles

Women with Cushing syndrome often have:

* Excess hair growth on the face, neck, chest, abdomen, and thighs
* Menstrual cycle becomes irregular or stops

Men may have:

* Decreased fertility
* Decreased or no desire for sex
* Impotence

Other symptoms that may occur with this disease:

* Mental changes, such as depression, anxiety, or changes in behavior
* Fatigue
* Headache
* High blood pressure
* Increased thirst and urination