Endokrinologie und metabolisches Syndrom
Offener Zugang

Abstrakt

ACTH Independent Cushing’s Syndrome Secondary to a Right Adrenal Adenoma Masked by Pregnancy

Sarishka Singh

Cushing’s syndrome can occur as a consequence of prolonged exposure to excessive amounts of circulating free cortisol and the various causes can be broken down into exogenous causes, such as from steroid treatment for chronic illnesses, or endogenous as in this case. Cushing’s syndrome can be further classified into ACTH-dependent and ACTH-independent, for which the latter accounts for 15-20% of all cases. This report highlights the case of a 35 year old female patient who presented with Cushing’s syndrome, the symptoms of which were concomitant with pregnancy, unmasked following delivery. She was found to have an ACTH-independent adrenal adenoma found incidentally during the workup for a pulmonary embolism following delivery via Caesarean section. Biochemical testing indicated cortisol excess and CT-adrenal scanning confirmed the presence of a tumour that kept in with an adrenal adenoma. Her case was discussed in our local MDT meeting and she was subsequently referred for laparoscopic adrenalectomy following which she had complete resolution of her symptoms.