Cushing's disease is a specific type of Cushing's syndrome that causes high cortisol levels due to a pituitary tumor. Cushing's syndrome, in general, refers to the condition of having excessive cortisol, which can be caused by various factors. Cushing's disease specifically points to a pituitary gland adenoma secreting adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which, in turn, stimulates the adrenal glands to produce excessive cortisol.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Cushing's Syndrome: This is the broad term for the condition of having too much cortisol in the body. The elevated cortisol levels can stem from several underlying causes.
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Cushing's Disease: This is one specific cause of Cushing's Syndrome. It occurs when a tumor on the pituitary gland secretes excessive ACTH. This excess ACTH then signals the adrenal glands to overproduce cortisol. Think of it as Cushing's Disease being a subset of Cushing's Syndrome.
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Other Causes of High Cortisol (Cushing's Syndrome):
- Exogenous Steroids: Taking high doses of corticosteroid medications (like prednisone) for conditions such as asthma or rheumatoid arthritis is a common cause of Cushing's syndrome. This is sometimes referred to as iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome.
- Adrenal Gland Tumors: Tumors on the adrenal glands themselves can produce excessive cortisol.
- Ectopic ACTH-Secreting Tumors: Less commonly, tumors in other parts of the body (e.g., lungs) can produce ACTH, leading to excess cortisol production.
Therefore, while Cushing's disease is a prominent cause, it's essential to remember that other conditions can also lead to high cortisol levels, collectively referred to as Cushing's syndrome. A doctor's evaluation is crucial to pinpoint the exact cause of high cortisol and determine the appropriate treatment.
