adrenal gland hyperfunction

Adrenal Gland Hyperfunction: Signs and Symptoms

Adrenal gland hyperfunction, also known as Cushing syndrome, occurs when the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol hormone. This can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Weight gain: Particularly in the upper body, face, and neck, with thinning arms and legs [2]
• Skin problems: Such as acne, reddish-blue streaks on the abdomen or underarm area [2]
• Easy bruising: Due to decreased collagen production and increased fragility of blood vessels [3][9]
• Muscle weakness: Particularly in the proximal muscles (those closest to the trunk) [3][9]
• Facial plethora: A flushed face due to increased cortisol levels [9]

Other possible symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Weight loss or gain
• Libido changes
• Pallor
• Flushed face
• Chest pain
• Rapid breathing
• Tachycardia

It's essential to note that these symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions, making it crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

References:

[1] Not applicable (this information is not present in the context)

[2] Context #2

[3] Context #3

[9] Context #9

Adrenal gland hyperfunction, also known as Cushing syndrome, can be challenging to diagnose due to its non-specific symptoms. However, various diagnostic tests can help confirm the condition.

Blood Tests

• Elevated nocturnal serum or salivary cortisol levels are often indicative of adrenal gland hyperfunction [6].
• A 24-hour urinary free cortisol level test is also commonly used to diagnose Cushing syndrome [8].
• ACTH blood tests measure the amount of adrenocorticotropic hormone in the blood, which can help detect conditions associated with adrenal gland hyperfunction [9].

Urine Tests

• Urine tests can measure levels of hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, which are often elevated in cases of adrenal gland hyperfunction [11].
• A 24-hour urine collection with analysis for urinary free cortisol excretion is considered the best screening test for Cushing's syndrome [8].

Imaging Tests

• Radiologic tests such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or X-ray may be used to visualize the adrenal glands and confirm diagnosis [11].
• These tests can help identify any abnormalities in the adrenal glands, such as enlargement or calcification.

Other Diagnostic Procedures

• A complete medical history and physical examination are essential for diagnosing adrenal gland hyperfunction [11].
• Specific blood tests to measure levels of hormones, such as cortisol and aldosterone, may also be performed.
• In some cases, a dexamethasone suppression test may be used to help diagnose Cushing syndrome [6].

It's worth noting that diagnosis is usually made by a combination of these tests, rather than relying on a single test result. A healthcare professional will interpret the results and make a diagnosis based on the overall clinical picture.

References: [6] Diagnosis is usually made by elevated nocturnal serum or salivary cortisol levels, or 24-hour urinary free cortisol level, and a dexamethasone suppression test ... [8] by LF KIRK JR · 2000 · Cited by 118 — The best screening test for Cushing's syndrome is a 24-hour urine collection with analysis for urinary free cortisol excretion. Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) can also be used. [9] The adrenal glands, above the kidneys, produce hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline, which regulate stress response, metabolism, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels.. Adrenal disorders disrupt hormone levels, causing fatigue, weight changes, and blood pressure irregularities. Adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison's disease) lowers cortisol or aldosterone, while excess ... [11] In addition to a complete medical history and medical examination, diagnostic procedures for overactive adrenal glands may include: Specific blood tests to measure levels of hormones; Urine tests to measure levels of hormones; Radiologic tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or X-ray

Treatment Options for Adrenal Gland Hyperfunction

Adrenal gland hyperfunction, also known as Cushing syndrome or hyperaldosteronism, can be treated with various medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

• Drugs that block excessive hormone production: Certain drugs, such as adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors (e.g., dexamethasone systemic), can help reduce the excessive production of hormones like cortisol or aldosterone [5][9].
• Medications for Cushing syndrome: Treatment may include medications to suppress ACTH production, such as somatostatin analogs, or to block the effects of excess cortisol [9].
• Drugs for hyperaldosteronism: In cases where a non-cancerous tumor in one adrenal gland is causing hyperaldosteronism, removing the affected gland using laparoscopic surgery may be recommended. However, medications like dexamethasone systemic can also be used to manage symptoms [2].
• Adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors: These drugs inhibit key steps in the biosynthesis of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, such as mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, estrogen, and androgen [14].

It's essential to note that treatment will depend on the underlying cause of adrenal gland hyperfunction, individual symptoms, age, and general health. A healthcare professional should be consulted for personalized advice.

References: [2] - Removal of affected gland using laparoscopic surgery [5] - Generic name: dexamethasone systemic; Brand names: Dexamethasone Intensol, ZoDex, De-Sone LA, Dxevo, Zcort show all [9] - Treatment of Cushing Syndrome · Surgery or radiation therapy to remove pituitary, adrenal, or ectopic ACTH-producing tumors · Sometimes somatostatin analogs or ... [14] - Adrenal corticosteroid inhibitors are drugs that inhibit key steps in the biosynthesis of hormones produced by the adrenal cortex, such as mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, estrogen and androgen. ...