Definition of Cushing syndrome due to adrenal tumor:

Cushing syndrome due to adrenal tumor is an endocrine system disorder that occurs when there is a tumor of the adrenal gland releasing excess amounts of the hormone cortisol.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Cushing syndrome is caused by constant, high levels of the steroid hormone cortisol. A tumor on one of the adrenal glands causes about 15% of all cases of Cushing syndrome. Adrenal tumors release cortisol.

Adrenal tumors may be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).

Noncancerous tumors that may cause Cushing syndrome include:

• Adrenal adenomas
• Micronodular hyperplasia

Cancerous tumors that may cause Cushing syndrome include:

• Adrenal carcinomas

Adrenal tumors are rare. They may develop in anyone at any age, but are much more common in adults. They are found in women more often than men.

See also:

• Cushing's disease
• Cushing syndrome
• Ectopic Cushing syndrome
• Exogenous Cushing syndrome