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Khan W, Kazman M, Abeer H, Raza AA, Khan AA. Unveiling the Uncommon: Cushing's Syndrome (CS) Masquerading as Severe Hypokalemia. Cureus 2024; 16:e58695. [PMID: 38774180 PMCID: PMC11107388 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) arises from an excess of endogenous or exogenous cortisol, with Cushing's disease specifically implicating a pituitary adenoma and exaggerated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) production. Typically, Cushing's disease presents with characteristic symptoms such as weight gain, central obesity, moon face, and buffalo hump. This case report presents an unusual manifestation of CS in a 48-year-old male with a history of hypertension, where severe hypokalemia was the primary presentation. Initial complaints included bilateral leg swelling, muscle weakness, occasional shortness of breath, and a general feeling of not feeling well. Subsequent investigations revealed hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, and an abnormal response to dexamethasone suppression, raising concerns about hypercortisolism. Further tests, including 24-hour urinary free cortisol and ACTH testing, confirmed significant elevations. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified a pituitary macroadenoma, necessitating neurosurgical intervention. This case underscores the rarity of CS presenting with severe hypokalemia, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and the crucial role of a collaborative approach in managing such intricate cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warisha Khan
- Critical Care Unit, Basildon University Hospital, Basildon, GBR
| | - Muzhda Kazman
- Pediatrics, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, AFG
| | | | - Ali Aizad Raza
- Pediatrics, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Royal Tunbridge Wells, GBR
| | - Arshan A Khan
- Internal Medicine, Ascension St. John Hospital, Grosse Pointe, USA
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Khom S, Rodriguez L, Gandhi P, Kirson D, Bajo M, Oleata CS, Vendruscolo LF, Mason BJ, Roberto M. Alcohol dependence and withdrawal increase sensitivity of central amygdalar GABAergic synapses to the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone in male rats. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 164:105610. [PMID: 34995754 PMCID: PMC9301881 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant glucocorticoid signaling via glucocorticoid receptors (GR) plays a critical role in alcohol use disorder (AUD). Acute alcohol withdrawal and protracted abstinence in dependent rats are associated with increased GR signaling and changes in GR-mediated transcriptional activity in the rat central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). The GR antagonist mifepristone decreases alcohol consumption in dependent rats during acute withdrawal and protracted abstinence. Regulation of CeA synaptic activity by GR is currently unknown. Here, we utilized mifepristone and the selective GR antagonist CORT118335 (both at 10 μM) as pharmacological tools to dissect the role of GR on GABA transmission in male, adult Sprague-Dawley rats using slice electrophysiology. We subjected rats to chronic intermittent alcohol vapor exposure for 5–7 weeks to induce alcohol dependence. A subset of dependent rats subsequently underwent protracted alcohol withdrawal for 2 weeks, and air-exposed rats served as controls. Mifepristone reduced the frequency of pharmacologically-isolated spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSC) in the CeA (medial subdivision) without affecting postsynaptic measures in all groups, suggesting decreased GABA release with the largest effect in dependent rats. CORT118335 did not significantly alter GABA transmission in naive, but decreased sIPSC frequency in dependent rats. Similarly, mifepristone decreased amplitudes of evoked inhibitory postsynaptic potentials only in dependent rats and during protracted withdrawal. Collectively, our study provides insight into regulation of CeA GABAergic synapses by GR. Chronic ethanol enhances the efficiency of mifepristone and CORT118335, thus highlighting the potential of drugs targeting GR as a promising pharmacological avenue for the treatment of AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Khom
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Larry Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Pauravi Gandhi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Dean Kirson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America; Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 71 S Manassas, Memphis, TN 38163, United States of America
| | - Michal Bajo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Christopher S Oleata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21224, United States of America
| | - Barbara J Mason
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, 10550 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States of America.
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Braun LT, Rubinstein G, Zopp S, Vogel F, Schmid-Tannwald C, Escudero MP, Honegger J, Ladurner R, Reincke M. Recurrence after pituitary surgery in adult Cushing's disease: a systematic review on diagnosis and treatment. Endocrine 2020; 70:218-231. [PMID: 32743767 PMCID: PMC7396205 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02432-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recurrence after pituitary surgery in Cushing's disease (CD) is a common problem ranging from 5% (minimum) to 50% (maximum) after initially successful surgery, respectively. In this review, we give an overview of the current literature regarding prevalence, diagnosis, and therapeutic options of recurrent CD. METHODS We systematically screened the literature regarding recurrent and persistent Cushing's disease using the MESH term Cushing's disease and recurrence. Of 717 results in PubMed, all manuscripts in English and German published between 1980 and April 2020 were screened. Case reports, comments, publications focusing on pediatric CD or CD in veterinary disciplines or studies with very small sample size (patient number < 10) were excluded. Also, papers on CD in pregnancy were not included in this review. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Because of the high incidence of recurrence in CD, annual clinical and biochemical follow-up is paramount. 50% of recurrences occur during the first 50 months after first surgery. In case of recurrence, treatment options include second surgery, pituitary radiation, targeted medical therapy to control hypercortisolism, and bilateral adrenalectomy. Success rates of all these treatment options vary between 25 (some of the medical therapy) and 100% (bilateral adrenalectomy). All treatment options have specific advantages, limitations, and side effects. Therefore, treatment decisions have to be individualized according to the specific needs of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah T Braun
- Department of Endocrinology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - German Rubinstein
- Department of Endocrinology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Stephanie Zopp
- Department of Endocrinology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Frederick Vogel
- Department of Endocrinology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | | | - Montserrat Pazos Escudero
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Jürgen Honegger
- Department for Neurosurgery, University Hospital Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Roland Ladurner
- Klinik für Allgemeine, Unfall- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Campus Innenstadt, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Martin Reincke
- Department of Endocrinology, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany.
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Abstract
Medical therapy has an adjunctive role in management of Cushing disease. Medical therapy is recommended for patients who received pituitary radiotherapy and are awaiting its salutary effects. Medications are used preoperatively to stabilize the condition of seriously ill patients before surgery. Medical therapy is used to control hypercortisolism in patients with uncertain tumor location. Medical therapies available for management of patients with Cushing disease include steroidogenesis inhibitors, centrally acting agents, and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists. All agents require careful monitoring to optimize clinical effectiveness and manage adverse effects. Novel agents in development may expand the armamentarium for management of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Blossom Street, Suite 140, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Beverly M K Biller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Blossom Street, Suite 140, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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5
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Development of a simple prediction model for adrenal crisis diagnosis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13546. [PMID: 32782279 PMCID: PMC7421495 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70466-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To develop a prediction model for adrenal crisis (AC) diagnosis among individuals with adrenal insufficiency that relies on the values of routinely measured clinical parameters, for application in standard clinical practice. We retrospectively analysed data from five referral centres in Japan. Multivariate binary logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of AC, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine their optimal cut-off points. The analysis included data from 54 patients with 90 AC events. Logistic regression revealed that serum sodium and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were independent predictors of AC. Serum sodium levels < 137 mEq/L had a sensitivity of 71.1% and specificity of 95.6%. CRP levels > 1.3 mg/dL had a sensitivity of 84.4% and specificity of 94.9%. In combination, serum sodium levels < 137 mEq/L or CRP levels > 1.3 mg/dL for AC diagnosis had sensitivity and specificity values of 97.8% and 94.4%, respectively. The combined use of serum sodium and CRP levels had high sensitivity and specificity, and can be used for AC screening in standard clinical practice. The model can assist in identifying AC among high-risk individuals. A larger prospective study is needed to validate these results.
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Braun LT, Reincke M. What is the role of medical therapy in adrenal-dependent Cushing's syndrome? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101376. [PMID: 32063487 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Medical therapy to control hypercortisolism in adrenal Cushing's syndrome is currently not the first-line therapy. However, in many clinical scenarios like pre-surgical treatment, in patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or in patients with bilateral hyperplasia, medical therapy can be important representing the only viable treatment option. Adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors and glucocorticoid receptor blockers have been used for many years: metyrapone, ketoconazole and mifepristone are in current use and effective. Mitotane can be used as well but is considered second-line therapy because of its high toxicity. Etomidate has a special position as emergency medication in severe hypercortisolism. New drugs are tested in prospective trials (levoketoconazole, osilidrostat and relacorilant) and might become effective alternatives to common drugs. Oher drugs - adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors as well as glucocorticoid receptor antagonists - are currently tested in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah T Braun
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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Futch HS, McFarland KN, Moore BD, Kuhn MZ, Giasson BI, Ladd TB, Scott KA, Shapiro MR, Nosacka RL, Goodwin MS, Ran Y, Cruz PE, Ryu DH, Croft CL, Levites Y, Janus C, Chakrabarty P, Judge AR, Brusko TM, de Kloet AD, Krause EG, Golde TE. An anti-CRF antibody suppresses the HPA axis and reverses stress-induced phenotypes. J Exp Med 2019; 216:2479-2491. [PMID: 31467037 PMCID: PMC6829597 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20190430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A high-affinity monoclonal antibody (CTRND05) targeting corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) blocks stress-induced corticosterone increases, counteracts effects of chronic variable stress, and induces other phenotypes consistent with suppression of the HPA axis. Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction contributes to numerous human diseases and disorders. We developed a high-affinity monoclonal antibody, CTRND05, targeting corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF). In mice, CTRND05 blocks stress-induced corticosterone increases, counteracts effects of chronic variable stress, and induces other phenotypes consistent with suppression of the HPA axis. CTRND05 induces skeletal muscle hypertrophy and increases lean body mass, effects not previously reported with small-molecule HPA-targeting pharmacologic agents. Multiorgan transcriptomics demonstrates broad HPA axis target engagement through altering levels of known HPA-responsive transcripts such as Fkbp5 and Myostatin and reveals novel HPA-responsive pathways such as the Apelin-Apelin receptor system. These studies demonstrate the therapeutic potential of CTRND05 as a suppressor of the HPA axis and serve as an exemplar of a potentially broader approach to target neuropeptides with immunotherapies, as both pharmacologic tools and novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter S Futch
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Karen N McFarland
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Brenda D Moore
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - M Zino Kuhn
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Benoit I Giasson
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Thomas B Ladd
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Karen A Scott
- McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Melanie R Shapiro
- Diabetes Institute, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Rachel L Nosacka
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Marshall S Goodwin
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Yong Ran
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Pedro E Cruz
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Daniel H Ryu
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Cara L Croft
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Yona Levites
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Christopher Janus
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Paramita Chakrabarty
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Andrew R Judge
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Todd M Brusko
- Diabetes Institute, Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Annette D de Kloet
- McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Pharmacodynamics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Eric G Krause
- McKnight Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Todd E Golde
- McKnight Brain Institute, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neuroscience and Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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Pal’chikova NA, Selyatitskaya VG, Kuz’minova OI, Pasechnaya KV. Effects Mifepristone on Aminotransferase Activities in the Liver in Rats with Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus. Bull Exp Biol Med 2018; 165:474-477. [DOI: 10.1007/s10517-018-4197-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cushing's disease is a rare systemic and disabling disease due to oversecretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) resulting in excess cortisol levels. Diagnosis and treatment are difficult; despite the availability of various pharmaceutical treatment options, there is an ongoing, unmet need for even more effective treatment. AREAS COVERED The present review aims at providing an overview of available drugs and presenting new developments. Focusing on the pituitary as a target, the review covers compounds targeting pituitary cell signaling or cell cycle control such as heat shock protein inhibitors (e.g. silibinin), histone deacetylase inhibitors (trichostatin A, vorinostat), kinase inhibitors (gefitinib, seliciclib), and others (such as triptolide, AT-101). Levoketoconazole and osilodrostat are in clinical testing and inhibit steroidogenesis. Blockade of ACTH receptor binding at the adrenal level is explained as a theoretical drug target. Inhibition of binding of the glucocorticoid receptor in the peripheral tissue plays a minor role due to its lack of biomonitoring options. EXPERT OPINION In our opinion, further research and drug development of pituitary-directed targets are necessary. Combination therapies may exert synergistic effects and allow for smaller and better tolerated doses, but more experience and data are needed to guide such treatment schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvère Störmann
- a Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV , Klinikum der Universität München , München , Germany
| | - Jochen Schopohl
- a Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV , Klinikum der Universität München , München , Germany
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Tritos NA, Biller BMK. Medical Therapy for Cushing's Syndrome in the Twenty-first Century. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2018; 47:427-440. [PMID: 29754642 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Medical therapy has a useful adjunctive role in many patients with Cushing's syndrome. Patients with pituitary corticotroph adenomas who have received radiation therapy to the sella require medical therapy until the effects of radiation therapy occur. In addition, patients with Cushing's syndrome who cannot undergo surgery promptly, including those who are acutely ill and cannot safely undergo tumor resection, may benefit from medical therapy as a bridge to surgery. Other possible candidates for medical therapy are those with unresectable tumors or those whose tumor location remains unknown despite adequate diagnostic evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Neuroendocrine Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Blossom Street, Cox 1, Suite 140, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Beverly M K Biller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street, Bulfinch 4, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Young J, Bertherat J, Vantyghem MC, Chabre O, Senoussi S, Chadarevian R, Castinetti F. Hepatic safety of ketoconazole in Cushing's syndrome: results of a Compassionate Use Programme in France. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 178:447-458. [PMID: 29472378 DOI: 10.1530/eje-17-0886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ketoconazole (KTZ) is one of few available treatments for Cushing's syndrome (CS). Although KTZ has been associated with severe hepatotoxicity, little information is available about hepatic safety in CS. The aim of this study was to document changes in liver function in patients with CS treated with KTZ. DESIGN An observational prospective French cohort study (Compassionate Use Programme (CUP)). METHODS Enrolled patients were stratified into a KTZ-naive cohort and a cohort already treated by another formulation of ketoconazole (KTZ-switch cohort). Liver function markers (alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyltransferase and bilirubin) were monitored at regular intervals. Patients with ALT > 3 × ULN (upper limit of normal), total bilirubin > 2 × ULN or both ALP > 2 × ULN and ALT > ULN were considered to have liver injury. RESULTS Overall, 108 patients were analysed (47 KTZ-naïve; 61 KTZ-switch). The median KTZ dose was 600 mg/day. Most abnormalities observed were asymptomatic mild increases of liver enzymes. Four patients in the KTZ-naïve cohort (8.5%) and two in the KTZ-switch cohort (3.3%) developed liver injury, considered related to KTZ in three cases (all KTZ-naïve in the first month of treatment). Five patients had mild liver function abnormalities at baseline and two had proven liver metastases. Two patients recovered on discontinuation of KTZ and the remaining patient died of unrelated causes. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the need for close monitoring of liver enzymes especially during the first six months of treatment. Liver enzyme abnormalities usually occurred within four weeks were asymptomatic and could be reversed on timely discontinuation of KTZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Young
- Univ Paris-SudFaculté de Médecine Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin Bicetre, France
- Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la ReproductionAssistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicetre, France
- INSERM U1185Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France
| | - Jérôme Bertherat
- Department of EndocrinologyMetabolism, and Diabetes, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) Unit 1016, Institut Cochin, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 8104, Paris, France
| | - Marie Christine Vantyghem
- Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies MétaboliquesHôpital Huriez, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Lille, INSERM U1190, EGID, Lille, France
| | - Olivier Chabre
- Service d'Endocrinologie-Diabétologie-NutritionCHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
- Faculté de Médecine Université Grenoble-AlpesGrenoble, France
- INSERM U 1036iRTSV-BCI, CEA-Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Rita Chadarevian
- HRA FranceParis, France
- Service d'endocrinologie-métabolismeAssistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Frédéric Castinetti
- Department of EndocrinologyAix Marseille Universite, CNRS UMR7286, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Marseille, La Conception Hospital, Marseille, France
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Effect of Mifepristone on Corticosteroid Production in Vitro by Adrenal Glands of Rats with Streptozotocin Diabetes. Bull Exp Biol Med 2017; 162:327-330. [PMID: 28091906 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-017-3607-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Changes in pregnenolone and corticosterone production by the adrenal glands of normoglycemic rats receiving the course of intraperitoneal mifepristone or NaCl administration were co-directed, but differed in magnitude. In rats with hyperglycemia, corticosteroid production increased after NaCl administration over 5 days and returned to the initial values after 15-day administration. On the contrary, pregnenolone and corticosterone production was suppressed after 5-day course of mifepristone, but significantly increased after mifepristone administration for 15 days. Intraperitoneal mifepristone administration almost completely abolished the response of rat adrenal glands with normo- and hyperglycemia to ACTH in vitro; this effect did not depend on the duration of administration.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare disease that results from exposure to high levels of cortisol; Cushing's disease (CD) is the most frequent form of CS. Patients with CS suffer from a variety of comorbidities that increase the risk of mortality. Surgical resection of the disease-causing lesion is generally the first-line treatment of CS. However, some patients may not be eligible for surgery due to comorbidities, and approximately 25 % of patients, especially those with CD, have recurrent disease. For these patients, adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors may control cortisol elevation and subsequent symptomatology. CS is rare overall, and clinical studies of adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors are often small and, in many cases, data are limited regarding the efficacy and safety of these treatments. Our aim was to better characterize the profiles of efficacy and safety of currently available adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors, including drugs currently in development. METHODS We performed a systematic review of the literature regarding adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors, focusing on novel drugs. RESULTS Currently available adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors, including ketoconazole, metyrapone, etomidate, and mitotane, have variable efficacy and significant side effects, and none are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for CS. Therefore, there is a clear need for novel, prospectively studied agents that have greater efficacy and a low rate of adverse side effects. Efficacy and safety data of current and emerging adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors, including osilodrostat (LCI699) and levoketoconazole (COR-003), show promising results that will have to be confirmed in larger-scale phase 3 studies (currently ongoing). CONCLUSIONS The management of CS, and particularly CD, remains challenging. Adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors can be of major interest to control the hypercortisolism at any time point, either before or after surgery, as discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code: CH8N, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Frederic Castinetti
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, CRN2M, Department of Endocrinology, Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
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Cuevas-Ramos D, Lim DST, Fleseriu M. Update on medical treatment for Cushing's disease. Clin Diabetes Endocrinol 2016; 2:16. [PMID: 28702250 PMCID: PMC5471955 DOI: 10.1186/s40842-016-0033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS). The goal of treatment is to rapidly control cortisol excess and achieve long-term remission, to reverse the clinical features and reduce long-term complications associated with increased mortality. While pituitary surgery remains first line therapy, pituitary radiotherapy and bilateral adrenalectomy have traditionally been seen as second-line therapies for persistent hypercortisolism. Medical therapy is now recognized to play a key role in the control of cortisol excess. In this review, all currently available medical therapies are summarized, and novel medical therapies in phase 3 clinical trials, such as osilodrostat and levoketoconazole are discussed, with an emphasis on indications, efficacy and safety. Emerging data suggests increased efficacy and better tolerability with these novel therapies and combination treatment strategies, and potentially increases the therapeutic options for treatment of CD. New insights into the pathophysiology of CD are highlighted, along with potential therapeutic applications. Future treatments on the horizon such as R-roscovitine, retinoic acid, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors and somatostatin-dopamine chimeric compounds are also described, with a focus on potential clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cuevas-Ramos
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Neuroendocrinology Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Sección XVI, Tlalpan, Mexico City, 14030 Mexico
| | - Dawn Shao Ting Lim
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Mail Code CH8N, Portland, OR 97239 USA
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Mail Code CH8N, Portland, OR 97239 USA
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Ambrogio AG, Cavagnini F. Role of "old" pharmacological agents in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome. J Endocrinol Invest 2016; 39:957-65. [PMID: 27086313 PMCID: PMC4987391 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-016-0462-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite recent advances in the management of endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS), its treatment remains a challenge. When surgery has been unsuccessful or unfeasible as well in case of recurrence, the "old" pharmacological agents represent an important alternative for both ACTH-dependent and independent hypercortisolism. Especially in the latter, the advent of novel molecules directly targeting ACTH secretion has not outweighed the "old" drugs, which continue to be largely employed and have recently undergone a reappraisal. This review provides a survey of the "old" pharmacological agents in the treatment of CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Ambrogio
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - F Cavagnini
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
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16
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Claps M, Lazzari B, Grisanti S, Ferrari V, Terzolo M, Sigala S, Vezzoli S, Memo M, Castellano M, Berruti A. Management of Severe Cushing Syndrome Induced by Adrenocortical Carcinoma with Abiraterone Acetate: A Case Report. AACE Clin Case Rep 2016. [DOI: 10.4158/ep151104.cr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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