Analysis of subclinical Cushing syndrome / 中华泌尿外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate subclinical Cushing syndrome cases and to improve the diagnosis.Methods A retrospective analysis was done on the data of 24 subclinical Cushing syndrome cases.Clinical data included clinical manifestations,endocrinal tests,imaging,treatments,light microscopic and electron microscopic results.Results No typical sign of Cushing syndrome was found in these 24 cases.Endocrine tests showed that 24-hour urine free cortisol increased in 18 cases (75%),cortisol rhythm disappeared in 12 cases(50%),high-dose dexamethasone suppression test was not inhibited in 11 cases (46%),and low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) was not suppressed in all 24 cases (100%).CT scan showed the average tumor diameter was 3.1(1.8-4.5)cm.Laparoscopic resections of adrenal tumors were performed for all 24 patients.The light microscopic examination of the tumor specimens showed adrenocortical adenoma,and the electron microscopic examination found a greater number of cytoplasmic secretory granules.After 3 months' followup,patient's blood pressure was normal and the normal cortisol rhythm was detected.Conclusions Endocrine tests,especially LDDST,are important for the diagnosis of subclinical Cushing syndrome.Once a clear diagnosis of subclinical Cushing syndrome is established,the patient should be treated with surgery and will have a satisfactory result in both blood pressure control and endocrinal rhythm.