English: What is Cushing syndrome?

Cushing syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to inappropriately high levels of plasma glucocorticoid (also referred to as cortisol) hormones. Glucocorticoid hormones maintain glucose regulation, suppress the immune response and are released as part of the body's response to stress. The production of cortisol from within the cortex of the adrenal glands is regulated by a small gland just below the brain called the pituitary gland.

There are several causes of Cushing syndrome:

Adrenocortical hyperplasia (overgrowth of adrenal cortex) secondary to pituitary overproduction of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) Benign or malignant adrenal tumours that release excess glucocorticoids into the blood Ectopic ACTH sydrome – secretion of ACTH by malignant or benign tumours arising in structures other than the pituitary or adrenal glands

Exogenous steroid administration – usually from administration of high doses of systemic corticosteroids such as prednisone for blistering diseases, asthma, arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.