Treatment:

Treatment depends upon the cause.

Cushing syndrome caused by corticosteroid use:

• Slowly decrease the drug dose (if possible) under medical supervision.

Cushing syndrome caused by a pituitary tumor or tumor that releases ACTH:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation after removal of a pituitary tumor (in some cases)
• Hydrocortisone (cortisol) replacement therapy (after surgery, and sometimes continued throughout the patient's life)

Cushing syndrome due to an adrenal tumor:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• If the tumor cannot be removed, medications to help block the release of cortisol

Expectations (prognosis):

Removing the tumor may lead to full recovery, but there is a chance that the condition will return.

Survival for people with ectopic tumors depends on the tumor type. Untreated, Cushing syndrome can be life-threatening.

Complications:

• Diabetes
• Enlargement of pituitary tumor
• Fractures due to osteoporosis
• High blood pressure
• Kidney stones
• Serious infections

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of Cushing syndrome.