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

Author Archives: Leslie Edwin

Difficulty with Cyclic Cushing’s Diagnosis

Question: There seems to be some controversy about Cyclic Cushing’s – some doctors don’t even believe in it. Many patients get frustrated because they “chase highs” hoping to test during an active period and, in a worst case scenario, spend many months or even years getting worse while trying to test only during periods when… Continue Reading

Using DHEA During Diagnosis

Question: I’ve heard people talk about having testing for 17-OH and DHEA in their pursuit for a diagnosis. I had my first round with Cushing’s five years ago and only remember cortisol tests. What are these and how do they help diagnose Cushing’s? Answer: DHEA is a low-potency sex steroid produced by the adrenal gland.… Continue Reading

Lila S, Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery

Skin Deep My story begins about three years ago, two years before I was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease. The difficult thing about Cushing’s for me is that the symptoms are mostly based on physical appearance. I first noticed acne, weight gain, and irregular periods. When you try to explain these symptoms, they’re written off as… Continue Reading

Ian C., Adrenal Cushing’s

Prior to being ill I was healthy and fit, hard working, and living life to the fullest. To this day I still don’t know how long I had Cushing’s, but between my doctors and consultants we think about seven years – six before diagnosis! When I first found out that I had Cushing’s, I found… Continue Reading

What’s New in Cushing’s Research? A Conversation with Dr. Constantine Stratakis of the NICHD

Dr. Stratakis gave one of the most highly rated presentations at the October 2017 Patient Education Day at the NIH in Bethesda, MD, when he discussed new strategies, research, and outcomes for Cushing’s in his breakout session. The positive feedback led to our desire to share a version of this presentation in the newsletter. What… Continue Reading