A Case Report of Cortisol-Secreating Adrenal Adenoma Causing Cushing Syndrome

Abstract

Cushing syndrome is a state of prolonged exposure to excess cortisol production. Causes can be varied ranging from exogenous intake or endogenous production from a pituitary source due to overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or due to over secretion from unilateral or bilateral adrenal glands. Cushing syndrome in an adult can present with proximal muscle weakness, facial plethora, wasting of the extremities with increased fat in the abdomen and face, wide purplish striae, bruising with no obvious trauma, and supraclavicular fat pads. Here, we report a 38 year old male who presented with suspicion of having Cushing syndrome due to his clinical manifestations and high cortisol levels. He presented to the clinic with new onset diabetes, severe hypertension, chronic abdominal pain and distension which was being investigating by different specialties. The patient underwent CT scan of the abdomen which show right adrenal adenoma and on examination, he was found to have proximal weakness and purple striae. Laboratory data showed high morning cortisol, 24 urine free cortisol and ACTH levels which were strongly suggestive of ACTH independent Cushing syndrome.