Alternate Names : Cushing syndrome – corticosteroid induced, Corticosteroid-induced Cushing syndrome, Iatrogenic Cushing syndrome, Exogenous Cushing syndrome
Definition
Exogenous Cushing syndrome is a form of Cushing syndrome that occurs in people taking glucocorticoid (also called corticosteroid) hormones, such as prednisone.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Exogenous means caused by something outside the body. Exogenous Cushing syndrome occurs when a person takes human-made (synthetic) glucocorticoids, such as prednisone or dexamethasone, for treatment purposes (for example, to treat asthma).
In Cushing syndrome, the adrenal glands produce too much of certain hormones, such as cortisol.
For other causes and more information about Cushing syndrome, see:
- Cushing syndrome
- Cushing syndrome caused by adrenal tumor
- Ectopic Cushing syndrome
Pictures & Images
Hypothalamus hormone production
The hypothalamus is an area of the brain that produces the “controlling” hormones. These hormones regulate body processes such as metabolism, and control the release of hormones from glands like the thyroid, the adrenals and the gonads (testes or ovaries).
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Cushing syndrome – exogenous : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Cushing syndrome – exogenous : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Cushing syndrome – exogenous : Treatment
Review Date : 11/23/2009 Reviewed By : Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
