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Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome is caused by too much of the hormone cortisol over a long time. It leads to weight gain, a round face and thin skin, and often stems from steroid medicines.
Causes & risk factors
- Long-term steroid medicine use (the commonest cause)
- A pituitary tumour making excess ACTH (Cushing disease)
- An adrenal gland tumour making cortisol
- A tumour elsewhere producing ACTH
Common symptoms
- Weight gain around the trunk and face
- Round, red face
- Thin skin that bruises easily
- Purple stretch marks
- Muscle weakness
- High blood pressure
- Mood changes
Tests & diagnosis
- Cortisol
- 24-hour urinary free cortisol
- Overnight dexamethasone suppression test
- Blood sugar
- MRI (pituitary/adrenal)
Treatment & management
- Slowly reducing or reviewing steroid medicines under supervision if they are the cause
- Surgery to remove a pituitary or adrenal tumour
- Radiotherapy or medicines in selected cases
- Managing blood pressure, sugar and bone health
- Regular endocrine follow-up
When to see a doctor urgently
- Rapid weight gain with a round face and purple stretch marks
- New high blood pressure or diabetes with these features
- Severe muscle weakness or easy bruising
- Never stop long-term steroids suddenly on your own
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about cushing's syndrome. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What most often causes Cushing's syndrome?
Long-term steroid medication (for asthma, arthritis or skin conditions) is the most common cause. Tumours of the pituitary or adrenal glands are less common causes.
Can it be cured?
Often yes — by carefully reducing steroids where they are the cause, or by removing a tumour. Treatment is guided by an endocrinologist.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.