Cushing's Syndrome

Overview

Cushing's syndrome is an endocrine disorder caused by prolonged exposure to excess cortisol. Clinical features may include hypertension, central obesity, purple striae, a rounded moon face, a dorsocervical fat pad, muscle weakness, and osteoporosis.

Symptoms

• Central obesity
• Moon face
• Purple striae
• Hypertension
• Hirsutism
• Fatigue

Treatment

Treatment targets the underlying cause; surgical removal is preferred for pituitary or adrenal tumors, sometimes with adjuvant radiotherapy or medication. Cases caused by long-term glucocorticoid use require gradual dose adjustment under medical guidance.

Dietary advice

Follow a low-salt, low-sugar, low-fat, high-protein diet and control total calories to reduce obesity and elevated blood sugar. Supplement calcium and potassium, and limit high-salt foods.