The Physiology Of Hypercortisolism

National Institute Of Diabetes And Digestive And Kidney Diseases

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Abstract

CCurrent WHO classification posits that Cushing's disease should be considered a neuroendocrine tumor rather than an adenoma. A conference of leaders in the field was held to discuss this; a consensus was obtained that use of the word "tumor" with its implication of cancer, is misleading, as these adenomas rarely become cancers. A commentary on a paper investigating the pathophysiology of septic shock highlighted the possibility that the proopiomelanocortin molecule, or a portion thereof, might be maintain the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in this condition. A further review paper highlighted the relationships between the molecular and cellular biology of the corticotrope cell and ACTH-producing tumors, and the currently used tests to identify Cushing's syndrome and its cause.