kkc, Author at CSRF - Cushing's Support & Research Foundation

Author Archives: kkc

Test Results for Cushing’s After a Steroid Injection

Question: When getting tested for Cushings, does a recent cortisone shot (two weeks prior to the initial test) affect the outcome? If so, how? Answer: Cortisone can affect steroid testing in several ways. First, cortisone may be detected in steroid assays, so, if administered within about 24 hours, the cortisone injection could result in an… Continue Reading

Symptom Variability in Cushing’s

Question: Do you have to have all the symptoms of Cushing’s to have it? Answer: Cushing’s syndrome is associated with a whole host of symptoms. In it’s more severe and advanced forms, people describe many signs and symptoms including a significant increase in fat in the neck and abdomen, easy bruising, severe fatigue, diabetes, hypertension,… Continue Reading

Pseudo-Cushing’s

Question: What is pseudo-Cushing’s? Answer: Pseudo-Cushing’s refers to individuals who have biochemical abnormalities or physical manifestations which are similar to Cushing’s syndrome; abnormal production rates of cortisol and abnormal feedback inhibition by glucocorticoids like dexamethasone are also present. There are several common causes of pseudo-Cushing’s. One that has been clearly described occurs in patients with… Continue Reading

Pseudo-Cushing’s and Antidepressants

Question: I have been told that I either have Pseudo-Cushing’s or a form of Cushing’s that has not been detected by standard tests. It has been suggested that I take antidepressants for a while, specifically one of the serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Why should I do this? Answer: First, antidepressant therapy usually works for both the… Continue Reading

Petrosal Sinus Sampling Test and Sedation

Question: I had Cushing’s due to a pituitary tumor. Because my MRI was negative, I had a petrosal sinus sampling test. I was not sedated. Is it usual to do this procedure without sedation? If so, why? Answer: This study is performed with the person awake, as it is not necessary to give general anesthesia… Continue Reading