CUSHING'S SYNDROME

Course overview

Cushing’s syndrome (CS) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by chronic exposure of the body’s tissues to exogenous or endogenous excess cortisol (i.e., hypercortisolism). In Cushing’s disease, the leading cause of CS, a pituitary gland tumor releases excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates excessive adrenal gland cortisol release. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of CS, including its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment, and to aid in caring for the patient with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.