A Case of AVP Dependent Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia / 대한내분비학회지

ABSTRACT

Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) independent bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (AIMAH) is a rare form of Cushing's syndrome, in which unique endocrinological, clinical and histopathological features have been described. In AIMAH, cortisol secretion is autonomous and independent of ACTH, thus plasma ACTH levels are persistently suppressed. Various etiological mechanisms have been proposed to explain the development of AIMAH, the development of aberrant adrenal sensitivity to gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), vasopressin, beta-adrenergic receptor agonists or the presence of circulating adrenal stimulating immunoglobulins have been suggested. We report on a 46-year-old female who had Cushing's syndrome, due to AIMAH, with a positive response to vasopressin.