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Prete A, Bancos I. Mild autonomous cortisol secretion: pathophysiology, comorbidities and management approaches. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2024; 20:460-473. [PMID: 38649778 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-024-00984-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
The majority of incidentally discovered adrenal tumours are benign adrenocortical adenomas and the prevalence of adrenocortical adenomas is around 1-7% on cross-sectional abdominal imaging. These can be non-functioning adrenal tumours or they can be associated with autonomous cortisol secretion on a spectrum that ranges from rare clinically overt adrenal Cushing syndrome to the much more prevalent mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) without signs of Cushing syndrome. MACS is diagnosed (based on an abnormal overnight dexamethasone suppression test) in 20-50% of patients with adrenal adenomas. MACS is associated with cardiovascular morbidity, frailty, fragility fractures, decreased quality of life and increased mortality. Management of MACS should be individualized based on patient characteristics and includes adrenalectomy or conservative follow-up with treatment of associated comorbidities. Identifying patients with MACS who are most likely to benefit from adrenalectomy is challenging, as adrenalectomy results in improvement of cardiovascular morbidity in some, but not all, patients with MACS. Of note, diagnosis and management of patients with bilateral MACS is especially challenging. Current gaps in MACS clinical practice include a lack of specific biomarkers diagnostic of MACS-related health outcomes and a paucity of clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of adrenalectomy on comorbidities associated with MACS. In addition, little evidence exists to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of long-term medical therapy in patients with MACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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2
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Trandafir AI, Ghemigian A, Ciobica ML, Nistor C, Gurzun MM, Nistor TVI, Petrova E, Carsote M. Diabetes Mellitus in Non-Functioning Adrenal Incidentalomas: Analysis of the Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion (MACS) Impact on Glucose Profile. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1606. [PMID: 39062179 PMCID: PMC11274780 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-functioning adrenal incidentalomas (NFAIs) have been placed in relationship with a higher risk of glucose profile anomalies, while the full-blown typical picture of Cushing's syndrome (CS) and associated secondary (glucocorticoid-induced) diabetes mellitus is not explicitly confirmed in this instance. Our objective was to highlight the most recent data concerning the glucose profile, particularly, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in NFAIs with/without mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS). This was a comprehensive review of the literature; the search was conducted according to various combinations of key terms. We included English-published, original studies across a 5-year window of publication time (from January 2020 until 1 April 2024) on PubMed. We excluded case reports, reviews, studies on T1DM or secondary diabetes, and experimental data. We identified 37 studies of various designs (14 retrospective studies as well 13 cross-sectional, 4 cohorts, 3 prospective, and 2 case-control studies) that analysed 17,391 individuals, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.47 (aged between 14 and 96 years). T2DM prevalence in MACS (affecting 10 to 30% of NFAIs) ranged from 12% to 44%. The highest T2DM prevalence in NFAI was 45.2% in one study. MACS versus (non-MACS) NFAIs (n = 16) showed an increased risk of T2DM and even of prediabetes or higher fasting plasma glucose or HbA1c (no unanimous results). T2DM prevalence was analysed in NFAI (N = 1243, female-to-male ratio of 1.11, mean age of 60.42) versus (non-tumour) controls (N = 1548, female-to-male ratio of 0.91, average age of 60.22) amid four studies, and two of them were confirmatory with respect to a higher rate in NFAIs. Four studies included a sub-group of CS compared to NFAI/MACS, and two of them did not confirm an increased rate of glucose profile anomalies in CS versus NFAIs/ACS. The longest period of follow-up with concern to the glycaemic profile was 10.5 years, and one cohort showed a significant increase in the T2DM rate at 17.9% compared to the baseline value of 0.03%. Additionally, inconsistent data from six studies enrolling 1039 individuals that underwent adrenalectomy (N = 674) and conservative management (N = 365) pinpointed the impact of the surgery in NFAIs. The regulation of the glucose metabolism after adrenalectomy versus baseline versus conservative management (n = 3) was improved. To our knowledge, this comprehensive review included one of the largest recent analyses in the field of glucose profile amid the confirmation of MACS/NFAI. In light of the rising incidence of NFAI/AIs due to easier access to imagery scans and endocrine evaluation across the spectrum of modern medicine, it is critical to assess if these patients have an increased frequency of cardio-metabolic disorders that worsen their overall comorbidity and mortality profile, including via the confirmation of T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Ioana Trandafir
- PhD Doctoral School of “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology V, “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania; (A.G.); (E.P.); (M.C.)
| | - Adina Ghemigian
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology V, “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania; (A.G.); (E.P.); (M.C.)
- Department of Endocrinology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai-Lucian Ciobica
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine I and Rheumatology, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military University Emergency Hospital, 010825 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Claudiu Nistor
- Department 4-Cardio-Thoracic Pathology, Thoracic Surgery II Discipline, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
- Thoracic Surgery Department, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military University Emergency Hospital, 010242 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria-Magdalena Gurzun
- Cardiology Discipline, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Laboratory of Non-Invasive Cardiovascular Exploration, “Dr. Carol Davila” Central Military University Emergency Hospital, 010242 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Tiberiu Vasile Ioan Nistor
- Medical Biochemistry Discipline, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Eugenia Petrova
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology V, “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania; (A.G.); (E.P.); (M.C.)
- Department of Endocrinology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mara Carsote
- Department of Clinical Endocrinology V, “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, 011863 Bucharest, Romania; (A.G.); (E.P.); (M.C.)
- Department of Endocrinology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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Tucci L, Fanelli F, Improta I, Bissi V, Lena C, Galante G, Mezzullo M, Magagnoli M, Lalumera AB, Colombin G, Coscia K, Rotolo L, Vicennati V, Pagotto U, Di Dalmazi G. Monitoring adrenal insufficiency through salivary steroids: a pilot study. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 190:327-337. [PMID: 38571387 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various glucocorticoid replacement therapies (GRTs) are available for adrenal insufficiency (AI). However, their effectiveness in restoring glucocorticoid rhythm and exposure lacks adequate biochemical markers. We described the diurnal salivary cortisol (SalF) and cortisone (SalE) rhythm among different GRTs and analysed the associations between saliva-derived parameters and life quality questionnaires. METHODS Control subjects (CSs, n = 28) and AI patients receiving hydrocortisone (HC, n = 9), cortisone acetate (CA, n = 23), and dual-release hydrocortisone once (DRHC-od, n = 10) and twice a day (DRHC-td, n = 6) collected 9 saliva samples from 07:00 to 23:00. Patients compiled Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Addison disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaires. SalE and SalF were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Exposure was monitored using SalE for HC and DRHC and SalF for CA. Area under the curve (AUC) was computed. Different GRTs were compared by Z-scores calculated from saliva-derived parameters. Questionnaire results predictors were evaluated with multiple regression analysis. RESULTS Compared with controls, all GRTs resulted in glucocorticoid overexposure in the morning. Hydrocortisone, CA, and DRHC-td caused overexposure also in afternoon and evening. Compared with other treatments, CA determined increased Z-score-07:00 (P < .001), DRHC-td determined increased Z-score-AUC07:00→14:00 (P = .007), and DRHC-od induced lower Z-score-AUC14:00→23:00 (P = .015). Z-scores-AUC14:00→16:00 ≥ .619 best predicted questionnaire scores. CONCLUSIONS None of the GRTs mimics normal glucocorticoid rhythmicity and exposure. SalE, SalF, and Z-score may be useful markers for monitoring and comparing different GRTs. Excess glucocorticoid in early afternoon best associated with depressive symptoms and worse life and sleep quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Tucci
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Flaminia Fanelli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Improta
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Bissi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Lena
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Greta Galante
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Mezzullo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Magagnoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Bianca Lalumera
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giacomo Colombin
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Kimberly Coscia
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Laura Rotolo
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Vicennati
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Uberto Pagotto
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Center for Applied Biomedical Research, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Guido Di Dalmazi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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Chen AX, Radhakutty A, Drake SM, Kiu A, Thompson CH, Burt MG. Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Adults With Adrenal Incidentaloma and Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e1020-e1028. [PMID: 37967229 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Many adrenal adenomas exhibit mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS). Although MACS is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality, the underlying mechanisms are not fully defined. OBJECTIVE To investigate mechanisms that may link MACS and cardiovascular mortality in adults with adrenal adenoma. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. PATIENTS Twenty adults with adrenal adenoma and MACS and 20 controls with nonfunctioning adrenal adenoma. METHODS Reactive hyperemia index (RHI) was measured by peripheral artery tonometry and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24h AMBP) was performed. Indices of insulin secretion and sensitivity were estimated by measuring glucose and insulin fasting and following a mixed meal. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The primary outcome was the difference in RHI between participants with MACS vs nonfunctioning adrenal adenoma. RESULTS The average cortisol after 1-mg dexamethasone and urinary free cortisol were higher in patients with MACS. There was no significant difference in fasting RHI (2.0 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.6-2.4] vs 2.0 [IQR 1.7-2.2, P = .72), but postprandial RHI was higher in patients with MACS (2.2 [1.8-2.7] vs 1.8 [1.5-2.2], P = .04). 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and Matsuda index were not significantly different in the groups. Fasting glucose and glucose area under the curve after the mixed meal were higher and insulinogenic index was lower in participants with MACS. CONCLUSION Adults with adrenal adenoma and MACS do not have fasting endothelial dysfunction and postprandial endothelial function may be better. These patients have fasting and postprandial hyperglycemia with lower insulin secretion, which may underlie the association between MACS and increased cardiovascular mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela X Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Anjana Radhakutty
- Department of Medicine, Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale 5112, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Sophie M Drake
- Department of Endocrinology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Andrew Kiu
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
| | - Campbell H Thompson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Morton G Burt
- Department of Endocrinology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park 5042, Australia
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5
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Castinetti F. Pharmacological Treatment of Cushing's Syndrome. Arch Med Res 2023; 54:102908. [PMID: 37977919 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.102908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The 1st line treatment of Cushing's syndrome is surgery, whatever the aetiology. The role of pharmacological treatment is clear in cases where surgery fails or is impossible, in cases of metastases, or while awaiting the delayed effects of radiotherapy. However, certain situations remain controversial, in particular the possible role of pharmacological treatment as a preparation for surgery. This situation must be divided into 2 parts, severe hypercortisolism with immediate vital risk and non-severe hypercortisolism with diagnostic delay. The initiation and adjustment of treatment doses is also controversial, with the possibility of titration by gradual dose increase based on biological markers, or a more radical "block and replace" approach in which the ultimate goal is to achieve hypocortisolism, which can then be supplemented. Each of these approaches has its advantages and drawbacks and should probably be reserved for different patient profiles depending on the severity of hypercortisolism. In this review, we will focus specifically on these 2 points, namely the potential role of preoperative pharmacological treatment and, more generally, the optimal way to initiate and monitor drug treatment to ensure that eucortisolism or hypocortisolism is achieved. We will define for each part which profiles of patients should be the most adapted to try to give advice on the optimal management of patients with hypercortisolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Castinetti
- Aix Marseille Univ, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille Medical Genetics, Laboratory of Molecular Biology Hospital La Conception, Marseille, France; Department of Endocrinology, La Conception Hospital, Marseille, France.
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6
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Araujo-Castro M, Reincke M, Lamas C. Epidemiology and Management of Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus in Patients with Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion: A Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3115. [PMID: 38137336 PMCID: PMC10740610 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) is associated with a higher cardiometabolic risk than that observed in patients with nonfunctioning adrenal adenomas and in the general population. In patients with MACS, the excess of glucocorticoids affects various metabolic pathways, leading to different manifestations of metabolic syndrome and other comorbidities. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are two of the most common cardiometabolic comorbidities associated with MACS, reaching a prevalence of up to 80% and up to 40%, respectively. In addition, they are the comorbidities that experienced a greater improvement after adrenalectomy in patients with MACS. Hypertension pathogenesis is multifactorial, including the coexistence of comorbidities such as obesity or diabetes and the role of the different polymorphisms of the glucocorticoid receptor gene, among others. Glucocorticoid-induced diabetes mellitus is mainly related to the detrimental effects of glucocorticoids on insulin-dependent glucose uptake in peripheral tissues, gluconeogenesis and insulin secretion. There are no specific recommendations for hypertension and diabetes treatment in patients with MACS. Thus, considering the similar underlying pathogenesis of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in overt and mild hypercortisolism, our recommendation is to follow this general stepwise approach: surgically remove the adrenal culprit lesion to induce remission from hypercortisolism; control hypercortisolism with steroidogenesis inhibitors; and treat elevated blood pressure or high glucose levels using carefully selected anti-hypertensives and glucose-lowering medications if blood pressure and glucose levels remain uncontrolled, respectively. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology, physiopathology and management of diabetes mellitus and hypertension in patients with MACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Araujo-Castro
- Endocrinology & Nutrition Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Colmenar Viejo Street km 9, 28034 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Colmenar Viejo Street km 9, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | - Martin Reincke
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336 Munich, Germany;
| | - Cristina Lamas
- Endocrinology & Nutrition Department, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete, 02006 Albacete, Spain;
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Li D, Singh S, Zhang CD, Kaur RJ, Ebbehoj A, Atkinson EJ, Achenbach SJ, Stricker NH, Mielke MM, Rocca W, Bancos I. Risk of dementia and psychiatric or sleep disorders after diagnosis of adrenal adenomas: a population-based cohort study. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 189:429-437. [PMID: 37801659 PMCID: PMC10581402 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adrenal adenomas are commonly encountered in clinical practice. To date, population-based data on their impact on cognition, mental health, and sleep are lacking. We aimed to study possible associations between adrenal adenomas and dementia, psychiatric or sleep disorders. DESIGN Population-based cohort study, Olmsted County, MN, 1995-2017. METHODS Patients with adrenal adenoma and absent overt hormone excess were age- and sex-matched 1:1 to a referent person without adrenal adenoma. Outcomes were baseline and incident diagnoses of dementia, psychiatric or sleep disorders, assessed using ICD codes. RESULTS Of 1004 patients with adrenal adenomas, 582 (58%) were women, and median age at diagnosis was 63 years. At baseline, and after adjusting for age, sex, education, BMI, and tobacco use, patients with adenoma had higher odds of depression (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 1.3, 95% CI, 1.1-1.6), anxiety (aOR: 1.4, 95% CI, 1.1-1.8), and substance abuse (aOR: 2.4, 95% CI, 1.7-3.4) compared to referents. During a median follow-up of 6.8 years, and after adjusting for age, sex, socioeconomic status, BMI, tobacco, and substance abuse, patients demonstrated a higher risk of psychiatric and sleep disorders [adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI)]: depression [1.7 (1.3-2.2)], anxiety [1.4, CI (1.1-1.7)], insomnia [1.4 (1.0-1.9)], sleep-related breathing disorders [1.5 (1.1-1.9)], hypersomnias [2.1 (1.0-4.2)], parasomnias [2.1 (1.0-4.2)], and sleep-related movement disorders [1.5 (1.0-2.1)], but not dementia. CONCLUSIONS Patients with adenomas demonstrate a higher incidence of psychiatric and sleep disorders, possibly due to the underlying subtle increase in cortisol secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingfeng Li
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, United States
| | - Sumitabh Singh
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, United States
| | - Catherine D Zhang
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Division of Endocrinology and Molecular Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Ravinder Jeet Kaur
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Andreas Ebbehoj
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth J Atkinson
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Sara J Achenbach
- Division of Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Nikki H Stricker
- Division of Neurocognitive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Michelle M Mielke
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, United States
| | - Walter Rocca
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
- Women’s Health Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, United States
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8
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Mohammedi K, Bertherat J, Raverot G, Drui D, Reznik Y, Castinetti F, Chanson P, Fafin M, Brossaud J, Tabarin A. Evidence of Persistent Mild Hypercortisolism in Patients Medically Treated for Cushing Disease: the Haircush Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e963-e970. [PMID: 37144820 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Cortisol-lowering drugs may not restore a normal cortisol secretion in Cushing disease (CD). OBJECTIVE This work aimed to assess the long-term cortisol exposure in medically treated CD patients using hair-cortisol (HF) and hair-cortisone (HE) measurement. METHODS This multicenter prospective study included 3 groups of female patients: CushMed = 16 treated with a stable cortisol-lowering drug dosage and normal urinary free cortisol (UFC); CushSurg = 13 cured by pituitary surgery; CushBla = 15 receiving stable recommended doses of hydrocortisone following bilateral adrenalectomy. Patients were evaluated for 3 months with their usual treatments. Two late-night saliva and 24-hour urine samples were collected monthly in CushMed, and at study end in CushSurg and CushBla patients. A 3-cm hair sample was collected at study end from all patients. Main outcome measures included clinical score and centralized measurement of UFC, late-night salivary cortisol (LNSF), late-night salivary cortisone (LNSE), HE, HF. RESULTS Despite having almost all UFCs normalized, CushMed patients exhibited increased HE as compared to CushSurg controls (P = .003). CushMed patients also had increased clinical score (P = .001), UFC (P = .03), LNSF, LNSE (P = .0001), and variability in the latter parameters (P = .004). CushBla patients had increased HF and HE, contrasting with LNSEs similar to CushSurg patients. Six of 15 CushMed patients exhibited increased HE concentrations and had increased antihypertensive drug dosage compared to CushMed patients with normal HE (P = .05). CONCLUSION Despite normalized UFCs, a subset of medically treated CD patients displays an altered circadian rhythm of serum cortisol. A single HE measurement identifies chronic mild persistent hypercortisolism and could replace multiple saliva analyzes to monitor medical treatments in CD patients once UFC is normalized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamel Mohammedi
- Department of Endocrinology, French Reference Center for Adrenal Cancer, EURACAN European Expert Center on Rare Neuroendocrine Tumors, Hôpital Haut-Lévèque, CHU and University of Bordeaux, F-33604 Pessac, France
| | - Jerome Bertherat
- Department of Endocrinology, French Reference Center for Rare Adrenal Disorders, Hôpital Cochin, Université Paris Cité, Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, F-75014, Paris, France
| | - Gerald Raverot
- Department of Endocrinology, French Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases HYPO, Hospices Civils de Lyon and Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69001, Lyon, France
| | - Delphine Drui
- Department of Endocrinology and Institut du thorax, CHU de Nantes, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | - Yves Reznik
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, CHU Côte de Nacre, F-14033 Caen, France
| | - Frederic Castinetti
- Department of Endocrinology, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Marseille, French Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases, EURACAN European Expert Center on Rare Pituitary Tumors, La Conception Hospital, Aix Marseille University, F-13385, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Chanson
- Department of Endocrinology, Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases HYPO, CHU Bicêtre, F-94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Manon Fafin
- Department of Endocrinology, French Reference Center for Adrenal Cancer, EURACAN European Expert Center on Rare Neuroendocrine Tumors, Hôpital Haut-Lévèque, CHU and University of Bordeaux, F-33604 Pessac, France
| | - Julie Brossaud
- Laboratory of Hormonology and Tumor Markers, Nutrition and Integrated Neurobiology Laboratory, UMR 1286, CHU de Bordeaux, F-33300, Bordeaux, France
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Department of Endocrinology, French Reference Center for Adrenal Cancer, EURACAN European Expert Center on Rare Neuroendocrine Tumors, Hôpital Haut-Lévèque, CHU and University of Bordeaux, F-33604 Pessac, France
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9
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Issa BG, Hanna FWF, Fryer AA, Ensah G, Ebere I, Marshall D, Keevil B. The Utility of Salivary Cortisone in the Overnight Dexamethasone Suppression Test in Adrenal Incidentalomas. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e937-e943. [PMID: 37155577 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Guidelines recommend the assessment of cortisol secretion in patients with adrenal incidentalomas (AI) using the overnight dexamethasone suppression test (ONDST). This requires attendance at a health care facility and venepuncture. Alternatively, the ONDST can be done by measuring salivary cortisol and cortisone, which can be collected at home. OBJECTIVE We aimed to assess the utility of these measurements in patients with AI. METHODS A retrospective analysis of data from 173 patients with AI who underwent an ONDST and salivary cortisol/cortisone diurnal studies. Serum and salivary cortisol and salivary cortisone were collected at 09:00, late night, and at 09:00 the following morning after dexamethasone. Dexamethasone levels were measured in the postdexamethasone samples. Serum and salivary samples were analyzed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS We identified a strong correlation between salivary cortisone and serum cortisol after 1 mg of dexamethasone (r = 0.95). Stepwise multivariate regression showed that postdexamethasone salivary cortisone, baseline serum cortisol, salivary cortisone suppression (predexamethasone/postdexamethasone ratio), and sex were the only significant or near-significant independent variables. Performance of predictive indices using these 4 parameters (sensitivity = 88.5%, specificity = 91.2%; kappa 0.80) and postdexamethasone salivary cortisone alone (sensitivity = 85.3%, specificity = 91.7%; kappa 0.77) were comparable when used to predict an ONDST serum cortisol of ≤50 nmol/L. No correlation was observed with any of the other measured parameters. CONCLUSION In AI patients, after dexamethasone, salivary cortisone correlates very strongly with serum cortisol in the ONDST and could therefore be used as an alternative sampling method which does not require venepuncture or attendance at hospital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil George Issa
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Fahmy W F Hanna
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospitals of North Staffordshire NHS Trust, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Anthony A Fryer
- Impact Accelerator Unit, School of Medicine, Keele University, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Grace Ensah
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Ikenna Ebere
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - David Marshall
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Brian Keevil
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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10
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Kjellbom A, Lindgren O, Danielsson M, Olsen H, Löndahl M. Mortality Not Increased in Patients With Nonfunctional Adrenal Adenomas: A Matched Cohort Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e536-e541. [PMID: 36800277 PMCID: PMC10348456 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) is associated with increased mortality in patients with adrenal incidentalomas, but little is known regarding the potential risk associated with nonfunctional adrenal adenomas (NFAA), which constitute the majority of adrenal incidentalomas. OBJECTIVE Compare mortality risk in patients with NFAA, and different levels of MACS, to matched controls. METHOD This was a retrospective matched cohort study. All patients referred to 2 endocrine centers in southern Sweden because of an adrenal incidentaloma between 2005 and 2015 were enrolled. Controls (3:1) matched for sex, age, and residency were included. Primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Outcome data were obtained from the Cause of Death Register. Patients were grouped according to cortisol level post 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (cortisolDST) (<50 (NFAA), 50-82, 83-137, and ≥138 nmol/L). RESULTS 1154 patients and 3462 matched controls were included. During a median follow-up of 6.6 years, 210 patients and 505 controls died. There were no statistically significant differences in mortality between patients with NFAA and their controls (HR 1.13 [0.87-1.46]) whereas mortality was increased compared to controls in patients with cortisolDST 83-137 (HR 1.99 [1.38-2.88]) and ≥138 nmol/L (HR 4.09 [2.41-6.93]). Likewise, the mortality risk was increased in patients younger than 65 years with cortisolDST 50-82 nmol/L compared with controls (HR 2.33 [1.30-4.17]). CONCLUSION NFAA does not seem to pose a clinically relevant risk for increased mortality in patients with adrenal incidentalomas while patients with MACS, and especially younger patients and those with cortisolDST ≥83 nmol/L, have significantly increased mortality risk compared with matched controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Kjellbom
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Lasarettsgatan 15, SE-221 85, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Office DCSL, Hämtställe 66, BMC F12, SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ola Lindgren
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Lasarettsgatan 15, SE-221 85, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Office DCSL, Hämtställe 66, BMC F12, SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
| | - Malin Danielsson
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Lasarettsgatan 15, SE-221 85, Lund, Sweden
| | - Henrik Olsen
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Office DCSL, Hämtställe 66, BMC F12, SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Ängelholm Hospital, Ängelholms sjukhus, SE-262 81, Ängelholm, Sweden
| | - Magnus Löndahl
- Department of Endocrinology, Skåne University Hospital, Lasarettsgatan 15, SE-221 85, Lund, Sweden
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Office DCSL, Hämtställe 66, BMC F12, SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
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11
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Tang P, Zhang J, Peng S, Yan X, Wang Y, Wang S, Zhang Y, Liu G, Xu J, Huang Y, Zhang D, Liu Q, Jiang J, Lan W. Primary bilateral macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasia (PBMAH) patient with ARMC5 mutations. BMC Endocr Disord 2023; 23:77. [PMID: 37029354 PMCID: PMC10080789 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-023-01324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary bilateral macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasia (PBMAH) is a highly heterogeneous disease with divergent manifestations ranging from asymptomatic subclinical Cushing syndrome (CS) to overt Cushing syndrome with severe complications. ARMC5 mutations occur in 20 to 55% PBMAH patients usually with more severe phenotypes. Different ARMC5 mutations might be associated with diverse phenotypes of PBMAH. CASE PRESENTATION A 39-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with progressive weight gain and severe hypertension. He presented typical CS and its classical metabolic and bone complications like hypertension and osteoporosis. The laboratory results showed high levels of cortisol and low levels of ACTH. Low- and high-dosed dexamethasone suppression tests were negative. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple bilateral irregular macronodular adrenal masses. Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) confirmed that the right adrenal gland with larger nodules secreted more hormone that the left side did. Right adrenalectomy and subsequent contralateral subtotal resection were conducted. His blood pressure and CS symptoms as well as comorbidities including backache and muscle weakness improved. Whole exome sequencing identified one ARMC5 germline mutation (c.1855C > T, p. R619*), five ARMC5 somatic mutations (four novel mutations) in his right and left adrenal nodules. CONCLUSIONS This PBMAH patient was identified with one ARMC5 germline mutation and five different somatic ARMC5 mutations (four novel mutations) in the different nodules of the bilateral adrenal masses. AVS combined with CT imagine could be helpful to determine the dominant side for adrenalectomy. Genetic testing is important for the diagnosis and management of the patient with PBMAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Tang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Song Peng
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuzhi Yan
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Yapeng Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaolei Liu
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiqiang Huang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Dianzheng Zhang
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, 4170 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19131, USA
| | - Qiuli Liu
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China.
| | - Weihua Lan
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, 10#, ChangjiangZhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Araujo-Castro M, Reincke M. Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia: A series of 32 cases and literature review. ENDOCRINOL DIAB NUTR 2023; 70:229-239. [PMID: 37116968 DOI: 10.1016/j.endien.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) accounts for <2% of cases of Cushing's syndrome. The majority of patients present with no obvious steroid excess it means with autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS). The classic treatment for patients with overt Cushing's syndrome is bilateral adrenalectomy, but unilateral resection of the larger adrenal gland can result in clinical and/or biochemical remission in >90% of cases, especially in cases of ACS. In this article, a series of 32 cases with PBMAH is described. Most of the cases of PBMAH had ACS, except for one case with overt Cushing's syndrome. A study of aberrant receptors was performed in six patients, being negative in three cases, positive in the metoclopramide test in two cases and positive in the metoclopramide test and in the mixed meal test in another patient. The patient with overt Cushing's syndrome was treated with adrenostatic therapy achieving biochemical control, while two patients with ACS underwent unilateral adrenalectomy with resection of the largest adrenal gland, demonstrating hypercortisolism remission and improvement of cardiovascular risk factors after surgery. This article describes a series of 32 cases of PBMAH and offers a comprehensive review of PBMAH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Araujo-Castro
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal [Ramon y Cajal University Hospital], Instituto de Investigación Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS) [Ramon y Cajal Research Institute], Spain; Universidad de Alcalá [University of Alcalá], Madrid, Spain.
| | - Martín Reincke
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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13
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Chen AX, Burt MG. Cardio-metabolic pathophysiology in mild glucocorticoid excess: Potential implications for management of adrenal incidentaloma. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 98:153-164. [PMID: 36367077 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal adenomas are incidentally identified in up to 5% of computer tomography scans performed for unrelated indications. A proportion of these adrenal incidentalomas are found to autonomously secrete cortisol based on definitions in current guidelines. Epidemiological studies suggest that chronic exposure to mild glucocorticoid excess from adrenal incidentalomas is associated with significantly increased cardiometabolic risk. However, current management guidelines adopt a conservative approach as no large prospective randomized studies have demonstrated that these patients benefit from surgery. This narrative review examines the epidemiological and mechanistic studies related to three common clinical settings of mild glucocorticoid excess to gain further insight into the potential benefits of treating patients with adrenal incidentaloma and possible autonomous cortisol secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela X Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Morton G Burt
- Department of Endocrinology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
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14
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Bertherat J, Bourdeau I, Bouys L, Chasseloup F, Kamenicky P, Lacroix A. Clinical, pathophysiologic, genetic and therapeutic progress in Primary Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia. Endocr Rev 2022:6957368. [PMID: 36548967 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Patients with primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) usually present bilateral benign adrenocortical macronodules at imaging and variable levels of cortisol excess. PBMAH is a rare cause of primary overt Cushing's syndrome, but may represent up to one third of bilateral adrenal incidentalomas with evidence of cortisol excess. The increased steroidogenesis in PBMAH is often regulated by various G-protein coupled receptors aberrantly expressed in PBMAH tissues; some receptor ligands are ectopically produced in PBMAH tissues creating aberrant autocrine/paracrine regulation of steroidogenesis. The bilateral nature of PBMAH and familial aggregation, led to the identification of germline heterozygous inactivating mutations of the ARMC5 gene, in 20-25% of the apparent sporadic cases and more frequently in familial cases; ARMC5 mutations/pathogenic variants can be associated with meningiomas. More recently, combined germline mutations/pathogenic variants and somatic events inactivating the KDM1A gene were specifically identified in patients affected by GIP-dependent PBMAH. Functional studies demonstrated that inactivation of KDM1A leads to GIP-receptor (GIPR) overexpression and over or down-regulation of other GPCRs. Genetic analysis is now available for early detection of family members of index cases with PBMAH carrying identified germline pathogenic variants. Detailed biochemical, imaging, and co-morbidities assessment of the nature and severity of PBMAH is essential for its management. Treatment is reserved for patients with overt or mild cortisol/aldosterone or other steroid excesses taking in account co-morbidities. It previously relied on bilateral adrenalectomy; however recent studies tend to favor unilateral adrenalectomy, or less frequently, medical treatment with cortisol synthesis inhibitors or specific blockers of aberrant GPCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerôme Bertherat
- Department of Endocrinology and National Reference Center for Rare Adrenal Disorders, Cochin Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 24 rue du Fg St Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Isabelle Bourdeau
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Research Center, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lucas Bouys
- Department of Endocrinology and National Reference Center for Rare Adrenal Disorders, Cochin Hospital, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, 24 rue du Fg St Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Fanny Chasseloup
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Peter Kamenicky
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - André Lacroix
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine and Research Center, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
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15
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Fleseriu M, Biller BMK. Treatment of Cushing's syndrome with osilodrostat: practical applications of recent studies with case examples. Pituitary 2022; 25:795-809. [PMID: 36002784 PMCID: PMC9401199 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-022-01268-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare endocrine condition frequently caused by a tumor resulting in elevated cortisol levels. Cushing's disease (CD) caused by an adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma is the most common form of endogenous CS. Medical therapy for CD is mostly used as second-line treatment after failed surgery or recurrence and comprises several pituitary-directed drugs, adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors, and a glucocorticoid receptor blocker, some of which are US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for this condition. The recent Pituitary Society consensus guidelines for diagnosis and management of CD described osilodrostat, an oral inhibitor of 11β-hydroxylase, as an effective, FDA-approved medical therapy for CD. Because clinical experience outside clinical trials is limited, we provide here a review of published data about osilodrostat and offer example case studies demonstrating practical considerations on the use of this medication. Recommendations regarding osilodrostat are provided for the following situations: specific assessments needed before treatment initiation; monitoring for adrenal insufficiency, hypokalemia, and changes in QTc; the potential value of a slow up-titration in patients with mild disease; managing temporary treatment cessation for patients with CD who have acquired coronavirus disease 2019; monitoring for increased testosterone levels in women; exercising caution with concomitant medication use; considering whether a higher dose at nighttime might be beneficial; and managing cortisol excess in ectopic and adrenal CS. This review highlights key clinical situations that physicians may encounter when using osilodrostat and provides practical recommendations for optimal patient care when treating CS, with a focus on CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fleseriu
- Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 SW Bond Ave, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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16
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Mittal M, Jethwani P, Naik D, Garg MK. Non-medicalization of medical science: Rationalization for future. World J Methodol 2022; 12:402-413. [PMID: 36186743 PMCID: PMC9516546 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v12.i5.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As we delve into the intricacies of human disease, millions of people continue to be diagnosed as having what are labelled as pre-conditions or sub-clinical entities and may receive treatments designed to prevent further progression to clinical disease, but with debatable impact and consequences. Endocrinology is no different, with almost every organ system and associated diseases having subclinical entities. Although the expansion of these “grey” pre-conditions and their treatments come with a better understanding of pathophysiologic processes, they also entail financial costs and drug adverse-effects, and lack true prevention, thus refuting the very foundation of Medicine laid by Hippocrates “Primum non nocere” (Latin), i.e., do no harm. Subclinical hypothyroidism, prediabetes, osteopenia, and minimal autonomous cortisol excess are some of the endocrine pre-clinical conditions which do not require active pharmacological management in the vast majority. In fact, progression to clinical disease is seen in only a small minority with reversal to normality in most. Giving drugs also does not lead to true prevention by changing the course of future disease. The goal of the medical fraternity thus as a whole should be to bring this large chunk of humanity out of the hospitals towards leading a healthy lifestyle and away from the label of a medical disease condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhukar Mittal
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, India
| | - Parth Jethwani
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, India
| | - Dukhabandhu Naik
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry 605006, India
| | - MK Garg
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, India
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17
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Castinetti F. Medical management of Cushing's disease: When and how? J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13120. [PMID: 35348261 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Transsphenoidal surgery is the first-line treatment of Cushing's disease. However, medical treatment can be given in a high proportion of patients with this rare condition. This is especially the case in severe hypercortisolism for which medical treatment will be given for a short period of time to prepare the patient for surgery, or on a long-term basis after failed transsphenoidal surgery, or when waiting for the maximal beneficial effect of radiation techniques. These different situations all require that hypercortisolism be perfectly controlled. Severe hypercortisolism is frequently treated by a block and replace approach during which a substitutive treatment is given after the induction of adrenal insufficiency. Mild hypercortisolism, the most frequent situation, is usually treated with a titration approach with a progressive dose increase. This approach requires certainty of eucortisolism because patients may be treated for a prolonged period. This review details the main situations during which medical treatment should be considered, as well as the way in which to monitor them to avoid the long-term consequences of mild hypo- or hypercortisolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Castinetti
- Department of Endocrinology, Aix Marseille University, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Marseille, INSERM, Marseille Medical Genetics, Marmara Institute, French Reference Center for Rare Pituitary Diseases, Endo-European Reference Network and EURACAN European Expert Center on Rare Pituitary Tumors, La Conception Hospital, Marseille, France
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18
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Delivanis DA, Vassiliadi DA, Tsagarakis S. Current approach of primary bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2022; 29:243-252. [PMID: 35621176 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss the most recent findings on the pathophysiology, the genetic and molecular causes of primary bilateral adrenal hyperplasia (PBAH). The diagnostic approach of patients with PBAH will also be presented in detail with an emphasis on the emerging diagnostic tools and finally, the treatment of PBAH will be discussed with an emphasis on the newest surgical and medical treatment approaches. RECENT FINDINGS PBAH is a highly heterogeneous condition mostly detected incidentally on abdominal imaging. Based on the size of the nodules, PBAH is subdivided into primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) and micronodular adrenal hyperplasia. A substantial proportion of patients with PBMAH harbor a germline mutation of the armadillo repeat containing 5 tumor suppression gene and therefore genetic testing is strongly recommended. Measurements of plasma or urinary multisteroid profiles show promising results in that PBMAH has a distinctive plasma steroid fingerprint that can help in diagnosis and subtyping of PBMAH. Finally, although surgery is the mainstay of treatment of patients with PBAH, medical therapy is increasingly emerging as an alternative option. SUMMARY PBAH is a poorly studied and therefore a challenging disease to diagnose and treat. Hopefully with these newest diagnostic and therapeutic tools, a more comprehensive approach will be adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danae A Delivanis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Dimitra A Vassiliadi
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Evangelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Stylianos Tsagarakis
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Evangelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece
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19
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Martino M, Aboud N, Lucchetti B, Salvio G, Arnaldi G. Osilodrostat oral tablets for adults with Cushing's disease. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:99-109. [PMID: 35220871 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2044789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare, multi-systemic condition resulting from chronic glucocorticoid excess sustained by a pituitary adenoma (Cushing's disease, CD), an adrenal adenoma or, less frequently, a neuroendocrine tumor. The optimal first-line option is surgery, but when it is contraindicated/refused, or in case of severe, life-threatening disease, medical treatment is a first-line choice. Osilodrostat (LCI699, Isturisa®) is a new, orally active adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitor currently approved by the FDA and EMA for the treatment of endogenous CS. AREAS COVERED We illustrate the pharmacologic profile of osilodrostat and summarize the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat from the first phase I studies to the most recent evidence. EXPERT OPINION Osilodrostat acts as a potent, reversible inhibitor of 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1) and 18-hydroxylase (or aldosterone synthase, CYP11B2), counteracting both gluco- and mineralocorticoid production. According to the results of the LINC1, LINC2, and LINC3 studies and the preliminary findings of LINC4, osilodrostat offers an excellent efficacy in controlling hypercortisolism with a good tolerability. The non-negligible risk of adrenal insufficiency/steroid withdrawal symptoms, hypokalemia, and hyperandrogenism disorders, and the possibility, albeit rare, of pituitary tumor enlargement, require further confirmation and careful monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Martino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nairus Aboud
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Beatrice Lucchetti
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Braun LT, Vogel F, Zopp S, Rubinstein G, Schilbach K, Künzel H, Beuschlein F, Reincke M. Diurnal Salivary Cortisol Profiles in Patients with Cushing's Syndrome. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2022; 130:434-438. [PMID: 35038761 DOI: 10.1055/a-1719-5381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quantification of salivary cortisol is one of the highly sensitive and specific screening parameters for Cushing's syndrome (CS). However, only late-night salivary cortisol is part of the standard screening procedure. In this study, we aimed to analyze salivary cortisol day profiles in patients with different types of CS to test whether specific patterns might be relevant for diagnosis and subtyping. MATERIAL AND METHODS Among 428 patients including those with confirmed Cushing's syndrome (N=111, of those 75 with Cushing's disease, 27 patients with adrenal CS and nine patients with ectopic CS), autonomous cortisol secretion (N=39) or exclusion of CS (control group, N=278) salivary cortisol was measured five times a day. RESULTS At each of the five time points, salivary cortisol was significantly higher in patients with CS compared to the control group (p≤0.001). Using the entire profile instead of one single salivary cortisol at 11 p.m. improved diagnostic accuracy (85 vs. 91%) slightly. Patients with ACTH-dependent CS had higher salivary cortisol levels than patients with adrenal CS. Also, morning cortisol was significantly higher in patients with ectopic CS than in patients with Cushing's disease (p=0.04). Nevertheless, there was a strong overlap between diurnal profiles, and the diagnostic yield for subtyping was low. DISCUSSION The study results show that using diurnal salivary cortisol profiles for CS diagnosis results in a limited increase in diagnostic accuracy. With significant differences between Cushing subtypes, cortisol profiles are not useful in everyday clinical practice for subtyping of CS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah T Braun
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Frederick Vogel
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie Zopp
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - German Rubinstein
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Schilbach
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Heike Künzel
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Felix Beuschlein
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, LMU Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Araujo-Castro M, Marazuela M. Cushing´s syndrome due to bilateral adrenal cortical disease: Bilateral macronodular adrenal cortical disease and bilateral micronodular adrenal cortical disease. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:913253. [PMID: 35992106 PMCID: PMC9389040 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.913253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing´s syndrome (CS) secondary to bilateral adrenal cortical disease may be caused by bilateral macronodular adrenal cortical disease (BMACD) or by bilateral micronodular adrenal cortical disease (miBACD). The size of adrenal nodules is a key factor for the differentiation between these two entities (>1cm, BMACD and <1cm; miBACD). BMACD can be associated with overt CS, but more commonly it presents with autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS). Surgical treatment of BMACD presenting with CS or with ACS and associated cardiometabolic comorbidities should be the resection of the largest adrenal gland, since it leads to hypercortisolism remission in up to 95% of the cases. Medical treatment focused on the blockade of aberrant receptors may lead to hypercortisolism control, although cortisol response is frequently transient. miBACD is mainly divided in primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD) and isolated micronodular adrenocortical disease (i-MAD). miBACD can present at an early age, representing one of the main causes of CS at a young age. The high-dose dexamethasone suppression test can be useful in identifying a paradoxical increase in 24h-urinary free cortisol, that is a quite specific in PPNAD. Bilateral adrenalectomy is generally the treatment of choice in patients with overt CS in miBACD, but unilateral adrenalectomy could be considered in cases with asymmetric disease and mild hypercortisolism. This article will discuss the clinical presentation, genetic background, hormonal and imaging features and treatment of the main causes of primary bilateral adrenal hyperplasia associated with hypercortisolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Araujo-Castro
- Endocrinology & Nutrition Department, Ramón y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
- Departament of Medicine, Alcalá University, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Marta Araujo-Castro,
| | - Mónica Marazuela
- Endocrinology & Nutrition Department, La Princesa University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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[Autonomous cortisol secretion : Laboratory artifact or disease?]. Internist (Berl) 2021; 63:18-24. [PMID: 34709420 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-021-01188-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autonomous cortisol secretion was mentioned for the first time in 2016 in the European Guideline on the management of adrenal incidentalomas. OBJECTIVES Review of the state of knowledge on diagnosis, epidemiology, co-morbidities, mortality and treatment of autonomous cortisol secretion in comparison to non-hormone producing adenomas. Recommendation for clinical practice based on the current European guideline. MATERIALS UND METHODS Analysis of relevant clinical studies, discussion of basic literature and expert opinions. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Autonomous cortisol secretion is a term used to describe abnormal cortisol secretion diagnosed by a pathological 1‑mg dexamethasone suppression test in patients with adrenal incidentaloma, but without clinical manifestation of overt Cushing's syndrome. It is associated with increased mortality and morbidity, especially hypertension, diabetes mellitus type II, dyslipidemia and obesity. Adrenalectomy, as the only specific therapy option, should be considered in an interdisciplinary tumour board.
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Favero V, Cremaschi A, Falchetti A, Gaudio A, Gennari L, Scillitani A, Vescini F, Morelli V, Aresta C, Chiodini I. Management and Medical Therapy of Mild Hypercortisolism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111521. [PMID: 34768949 PMCID: PMC8584167 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mild hypercortisolism (mHC) is defined as an excessive cortisol secretion, without the classical manifestations of clinically overt Cushing's syndrome. This condition increases the risk of bone fragility, neuropsychological alterations, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular events and mortality. At variance with Cushing's syndrome, mHC is not rare, with it estimated to be present in up to 2% of individuals older than 60 years, with higher prevalence (up to 10%) in individuals with uncontrolled hypertension and/or diabetes or with unexplainable bone fragility. Measuring cortisol after a 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test is the first-line test for searching for mHC, and the degree of cortisol suppression is associated with the presence of cortisol-related consequences and mortality. Among the additional tests used for diagnosing mHC in doubtful cases, the basal morning plasma adrenocorticotroph hormone, 24-h urinary free cortisol and/or late-night salivary cortisol could be measured, particularly in patients with possible cortisol-related complications, such as hypertension and diabetes. Surgery is considered as a possible therapeutic option in patients with munilateral adrenal incidentalomas and mHC since it improves diabetes and hypertension and reduces the fracture risk. In patients with mHC and bilateral adrenal adenomas, in whom surgery would lead to persistent hypocortisolism, and in patients refusing surgery or in whom surgery is not feasible, medical therapy is needed. Currently, promising though scarce data have been provided on the possible use of pituitary-directed agents, such as the multi-ligand somatostatin analog pasireotide or the dopamine agonist cabergoline for the-nowadays-rare patients with pituitary mHC. In the more frequently adrenal mHC, encouraging data are available for metyrapone, a steroidogenesis inhibitor acting mainly against the adrenal 11-βhydroxylase, while data on osilodrostat and levoketoconazole, other new steroidogenesis inhibitors, are still needed in patients with mHC. Finally, on the basis of promising data with mifepristone, a non-selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, in patients with mild cortisol hypersecretion, a randomized placebo-controlled study is ongoing for assessing the efficacy and safety of relacorilant, a selective glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, for patients with mild adrenal hypercortisolism and diabetes mellitus/impaired glucose tolerance and/or uncontrolled systolic hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Favero
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
| | - Arianna Cremaschi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
| | - Alberto Falchetti
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
| | - Agostino Gaudio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Luigi Gennari
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Alfredo Scillitani
- Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetology “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza” Hospital, IRCCS, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy;
| | - Fabio Vescini
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, University-Hospital S. M. Misericordia of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Valentina Morelli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Carmen Aresta
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-61911-2738
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.F.); (A.C.); (I.C.)
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy;
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Abstract
Adrenal tumors are commonly discovered incidentally on cross-sectional abdominal imaging performed for reasons other than adrenal mass. Incidence of adrenal tumors increased 10-fold in the past 2 decades, with most diagnosed in older adults. In any patient with a newly discovered adrenal mass, determining whether the adrenal mass is malignant and whether it is hormonally active is equally important to guide the best management. Malignancy is diagnosed in 5% to 8% of patients with adrenal tumors, with a higher risk in young patients, if history of extra-adrenal malignancy, in those with large adrenal tumors with indeterminate imaging characteristics, and in bilateral adrenal tumors. Although overt hormone excess is uncommon in adrenal incidentalomas, mild autonomous cortisol secretion can be diagnosed in up to 30% to 50% of patients. Because autonomous cortisol secretion is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and metabolic abnormalities, all patients with adrenal incidentalomas require work up with dexamethasone suppression test. Management of adrenal tumors varies based on etiology, associated comorbidities, and patient's preference. This article reviews the current evidence on the diagnosis and evaluation of patients with adrenal mass and focuses on management of the most common etiologies of adrenal incidentalomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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25
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Chevalier B, Vantyghem MC, Espiard S. Bilateral Adrenal Hyperplasia: Pathogenesis and Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101397. [PMID: 34680514 PMCID: PMC8533142 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia is a rare cause of Cushing’s syndrome. Micronodular adrenal hyperplasia, including the primary pigmented micronodular adrenal dysplasia (PPNAD) and the isolated micronodular adrenal hyperplasia (iMAD), can be distinguished from the primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) according to the size of the nodules. They both lead to overt or subclinical CS. In the latter case, PPNAD is usually diagnosed after a systematic screening in patients presenting with Carney complex, while for PBMAH, the diagnosis is often incidental on imaging. Identification of causal genes and genetic counseling also help in the diagnoses. This review discusses the last decades’ findings on genetic and molecular causes of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, including the several mechanisms altering the PKA pathway, the recent discovery of ARMC5, and the role of the adrenal paracrine regulation. Finally, the treatment of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia will be discussed, focusing on current data on unilateral adrenalectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Chevalier
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism and Nutrition, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (B.C.); (M.-C.V.)
| | - Marie-Christine Vantyghem
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism and Nutrition, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (B.C.); (M.-C.V.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1190, European Genomic Institute for Diabetes (EGID), CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Stéphanie Espiard
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism and Nutrition, CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France; (B.C.); (M.-C.V.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1190, European Genomic Institute for Diabetes (EGID), CHU Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- Correspondence:
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27
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Castinetti F, Nieman LK, Reincke M, Newell-Price J. Approach to the Patient Treated with Steroidogenesis Inhibitors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:2114-2123. [PMID: 33675650 PMCID: PMC8427736 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Steroidogenesis inhibitors can be given to control the hypercortisolism of Cushing's syndrome in various situations: when surgery has been unsuccessful or not possible; in metastatic adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) or cortisol-secreting tumors; when waiting for the maximal efficacy of radiation techniques; for rapid treatment of severe hypercortisolism in patients with occult ACTH-producing tumors; or as a presurgical treatment in patients with severe comorbidities. Whilst biochemical "control" can be achieved in more than 50% of cases, daily management of such drugs can be challenging. Indeed, with a "dose-titration" or a "block and replace" approach, defining eucortisolism is usually difficult, requiring the measurement of several biological markers. Moreover, each drug has its own side effects, which must be monitored closely. The aim of this "approach to the patient" is to shed light on the management of hypercortisolism with 4 steroidogenesis inhibitors (ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, metyrapone, osilodrostat) to help endocrinologists dealing with patients with Cushing's syndrome. Various points will be discussed, such as initial dose of treatment, dose schedule, monitoring of efficacy, and side effects of monotherapy. The combination of steroidogenesis inhibitors will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Castinetti
- Aix Marseille University, Marseille Medical Genetics, INSERM U1251 and Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, La Conception Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Marseille 13005, France
- Correspondence: Frederic Castinetti, MD, PhD, Department of Endocrinology, La Conception Hospital, 147 Boulevard Baille, 13385 Marseille Cedex 05, France. E-mail:
| | - Lynnette K Nieman
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - John Newell-Price
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
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Ivović M, Marina LV, Šojat AS, Tančić-Gajić M, Arizanović Z, Kendereški A, Vujović S. Approach to the Patient with Subclinical Cushing's Syndrome. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 26:5584-5590. [PMID: 32787757 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200813134328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of patients with adrenal incidentalomas and subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCS) led to an increasing number of different guidelines, and diagnostic and treatment recommendations. Excess cortisol secretion in patients with SCS is associated with several comorbidities, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity, which in the long-term increase mortality of these patients. Subtle cortisol secretion affects bone health, quality of life and causes depression, but due to the unapparent clinical features, patients with SCS are often at risk between over and under treatment. This narrative review aimed to summarize the latest recommendations on the approach to the patient with subclinical Cushing's syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miomira Ivović
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana V Marina
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Antoan S Šojat
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milina Tančić-Gajić
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zorana Arizanović
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Kendereški
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Vujović
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Subotica 13, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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Bouys L, Chiodini I, Arlt W, Reincke M, Bertherat J. Update on primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH). Endocrine 2021; 71:595-603. [PMID: 33587256 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02645-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH), characterized by bilateral benign adrenal macronodules (>1 cm) potentially responsible for variable levels of cortisol excess, is a rare and heterogeneous disease. However, its frequency increases due to incidentally diagnosed cases on abdominal imaging carried out for reasons other than suspected adrenal disease. Mostly isolated, it can also be associated with dominantly inherited genetic conditions in rare cases. Considering the bilateral nature of adrenal involvement and the description of familial cases, the search of a genetic predisposition has led to the identification of germline heterozygous inactivating mutations of the putative tumor suppressor gene ARMC5, causing around 25% of the apparent sporadic cases. Rigorous biochemical and imaging assessment are key elements in the management of this challenging disease in terms of diagnosis. Treatment is reserved for symptomatic patients with overt or subclinical Cushing syndrome, and was historically based on bilateral adrenalectomy, which nowadays tends to be replaced by unilateral adrenalectomy or lifelong treatment with cortisol synthesis inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Bouys
- Institut Cochin, Université de Paris, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, ENDO-ERN HCP, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, ENDO-ERN HCP, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, ENDO-ERN HCP, Klinikum der Universität, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Ziemssenstraße 1, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Jérôme Bertherat
- Institut Cochin, Université de Paris, Inserm U1016, CNRS UMR8104, 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, 75014, Paris, France.
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares de la Surrénale, Service d'Endocrinologie, ENDO-ERN HCP, Hôpital Cochin, AP-HP, 27 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, 75014, Paris, France.
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Aresta C, Favero V, Morelli V, Giovanelli L, Parazzoli C, Falchetti A, Pugliese F, Gennari L, Vescini F, Salcuni A, Scillitani A, Persani L, Chiodini I. Cardiovascular complications of mild autonomous cortisol secretion. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101494. [PMID: 33814301 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal incidentalomas (AI) may be associated with a mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) in up to one third of cases. There is growing evidence that MACS patients actually present increased risk of cardiovascular disease and higher mortality rate, driven by increased prevalence of known cardiovascular risk factors, as well as accelerated cardiovascular remodelling. Adrenalectomy seems to have cardiometabolic beneficial effects in MACS patients but their management is still a debated topic due to the lack of high-quality studies. Several studies suggested that so called "non-functioning" AI may be actually "functioning" with an associated increased cardiovascular risk. Although the individual cortisol sensitivity and peripheral activation have been recently suggested to play a role in influencing the cardiovascular risk even in apparently eucortisolemic patients, to date the degree of cortisol secretion, as mirrored by the cortisol levels after dexamethasone suppression test remains the best predictor of an increased cardiovascular risk in AI patients. However, whether or not the currently used cut-off set at 50 nmol/L for cortisol levels after dexamethasone suppression could be considered completely reliable in ruling out hypercortisolism remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Aresta
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Vittoria Favero
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Valentina Morelli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda-Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Luca Giovanelli
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Parazzoli
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alberto Falchetti
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Flavia Pugliese
- Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetology "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
| | - Luigi Gennari
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Fabio Vescini
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, University-Hospital S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy.
| | - Antonio Salcuni
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Unit, University-Hospital S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy.
| | - Alfredo Scillitani
- Unit of Endocrinology and Diabetology "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" Hospital, IRCCS, San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy.
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Yozamp N, Vaidya A. Assessment of mild autonomous cortisol secretion among incidentally discovered adrenal masses. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101491. [PMID: 33593680 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Incidentally discovered adrenal masses are common and mostly benign and non-functioning adenomas. However, evolving evidence suggests that a notable proportion of these adrenal adenomas may demonstrate mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS), which has been associated with an increased risk for hypertension, hyperglycemia, obesity, dyslipidemia, vertebral fractures, adverse cardiovascular events, and mortality. Therefore, it is advised that all patients with an incidentally discovered adrenal mass be tested for MACS. When there is convincing evidence for MACS, surgical adrenalectomy has been associated with an improvement in certain metabolic parameters and a reduction in vertebral fractures; however, conclusive evidence demonstrating decreased cardiovascular outcomes or mortality are not yet available. Future studies with adequate randomization and follow-up to assess adverse clinical endpoints are needed to determine the optimal management and follow-up of patients with MACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Yozamp
- Center for Adrenal Disorders, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anand Vaidya
- Center for Adrenal Disorders, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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32
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Vassiliadi DA, Partsalaki E, Tsagarakis S. Approach to patients with bilateral adrenal incidentalomas. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2020; 27:125-131. [PMID: 32209820 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current review provides a summary on the most recent developments regarding the cause, work-up and management of bilateral adrenal incidentalomas (BAI). RECENT FINDINGS The recent ENS@T/ESE guidelines provide comprehensive directions on the evaluation and management of patients with adrenal incidentalomas with special focus on those with bilateral tumours. Intraadrenal ACTH synthesis that may locally stimulate cortisol secretion challenging the traditionally used term 'ACTH-independent'. Inactivating mutations of a new tumour suppressor gene, armadillo repeat containing 5 (ARMC5), are implicated in a number of patients, especially those with multiple macronodules (bilateral macronodular hyperplasia) and evidence of hypercortisolism. Loss-of-function mutations of the glucocorticoid receptor gene (NR3C1) consist a new possible genetic cause of BAIs. Regarding management an increasing number of studies provide data on the benefits and safety of unilateral rather than bilateral adrenalectomy. There is also emerging data on the beneficial use of steroidogenesis inhibitors in a dosing schedule that aims to mimic the normal cortisol rhythm with promising short-term results, but the long-term clinical benefits of this approach remain to be demonstrated. SUMMARY The diagnostic approach consists of imaging and hormonal evaluation. Imaging characterization should be done separately for each lesion. Hormonal evaluation includes testing for primary aldosteronism, pheochromocytoma and evaluation for autonomous cortisol secretion, using the 1-mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test. Midnight cortisol or 24-h urinary-free cortisol may aid in establishing the degree of cortisol excess. In patients with hypercortisolism ACTH levels should be measured to establish ACTH-independency. The appropriate management of BAI associated with cortisol excess remains controversial. Bilateral adrenalectomy results in lifetime steroid dependency and is better reserved only for patients with overt and severe hypercortisolism. Unilateral adrenalectomy might be considered in selected patients. Medical therapy is not an established approach yet but it may be considered when control of hypercortisolism is desired, but surgery is not an option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra A Vassiliadi
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, National Expertise Center for Rare Endocrine Disorders, Evangelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece
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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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Abstract
The European society of endocrinology, in association with the European network for the study of adrenal tumors, published recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of adrenal incidentalomas in 2016. A thorough and critical analysis of the literature was performed to establish evidence-based recommendations and expert suggestions with the aim of avoiding 'over-diagnosis' and 'over-treatment' and to reduce unnecessary investigations, surgery and follow-up. The purpose of this review is to reconsider several recommendations that are open to debate, such as imaging of adrenal incidentalomas, diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, diagnosis and treatment of autonomous cortisol-secreting tumors, investigations of bilateral AI and follow-up of non-operated AIs, based on studies published after the release of the recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Cambos
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33604 Pessac, France
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital of Bordeaux, 33604 Pessac, France; Inserm U1215, Neurocentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, 146 Rue Leo Saignat, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France.
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Kelsall A, Iqbal A, Newell-Price J. Adrenal incidentaloma: cardiovascular and metabolic effects of mild cortisol excess. Gland Surg 2020; 9:94-104. [PMID: 32206602 DOI: 10.21037/gs.2019.11.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In the vast majority of cases adrenal incidentalomas (AI) are benign adrenocortical adenomas. They are present in up to 10% of the population over 70 years, with incidence increasing with age. Mild cortisol excess (MCE) in the context of AI is defined as autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS) in the absence of the classical clinical features of Cushing's syndrome. MCE has been reported in up to at least one third of patients with AI. Numerous studies have shown that MCE in AI is associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality, likely to be consequent upon both hemodynamic changes and inflammatory pathways, and a worse metabolic phenotype characterized by: pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, visceral obesity and dyslipidemia. There is currently no level 3 evidence from large intervention randomized controlled trials to guide management of MCE in AI, and there is a lack of predictive tools to allow stratification to intervention of only those patients who would benefit in terms of improved metabolic and cardiovascular end-points. Here, we describe the mal-effects of cortisol on cardiovascular and metabolic tissues and discuss management strategies based on current largely observational data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Kelsall
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ahmed Iqbal
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, UK
| | - John Newell-Price
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, UK
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Delivanis DA, Athimulam S, Bancos I. Modern Management of Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2019; 106:1209-1221. [PMID: 31206616 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.1551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Incidentally discovered adrenal tumors are reported in ~ 5% of adults undergoing cross-sectional imaging. Mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) from the adrenal mass is demonstrated in 5-48% of patients with adrenal tumors. The diagnosis of MACS represents a challenge due to limitations of the currently used diagnostic tests, differences in the definitions of the clinically relevant MACS, and heterogeneity in an individual's susceptibility to abnormal cortisol secretion from the adrenal mass. Patients with MACS present with increased risk of cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular events, metabolic bone disease, and mortality. Adrenalectomy improves or reverses MACS-associated comorbidities in selected patients. The current review will address diagnostic and management challenges in the care of patients with MACS, discuss data on emerging biomarkers, and suggest future directions in the field of MACS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danae A Delivanis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Shobana Athimulam
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Belokovskaya R, Ravikumar A, Arumugam D, Izadmehr S, Goddard GM, Geer EB, Levine AC. MIFEPRISTONE TREATMENT FOR MILD AUTONOMOUS CORTISOL SECRETION DUE TO ADRENAL ADENOMAS: A PILOT STUDY. Endocr Pract 2019; 25:846-853. [PMID: 31070948 PMCID: PMC9125788 DOI: 10.4158/ep-2019-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Adrenal incidentalomas are increasingly detected with the widespread use of thoracic and abdominal imaging. The most common secretory syndrome in adrenal nodules is autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS). Recent data show that even mild cortisol excess is associated with adverse outcomes. The glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone has been used in patients with overt Cushing syndrome and hyperglycemia. The purpose of our study was to determine the effect of mifepristone on metabolic parameters in patients with ACS and concomitant prediabetes or diabetes. Methods: Eight patients with either unilateral or bilateral adrenal nodules with ACS were included in the study. Fasting laboratory tests including glucose and insulin levels to calculate homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were performed at baseline and again after either 3 months (3 patients) or 6 months (5 patients) on mifepristone 300 mg daily treatment. Patients also completed several validated surveys on mood and quality of life at baseline and follow-up. Results: There were significant reductions in fasting glucose measurements and insulin resistance as measured by HOMA-IR in the 6 of 8 study patients in whom these measurements were available (P = .03). Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrates that mifepristone treatment of ACS is associated with a significant decrease in fasting glucose and insulin resistance as measured by HOMA-IR scores. Mifepristone treatment of ACS may be considered as a medical option for patients with ACS due to adrenal adenomas with concomitant abnormal glucose parameters in whom surgical removal is not being considered. Abbreviations: ACS = autonomous cortisol secretion; ACTH = adrenocorticotropic hormone; AI = adrenal incidentaloma; DHEAS = dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate; GR = glucocorticoid receptor; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; HOMA-IR = homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance; ODT = overnight dexamethasone suppression test; QoL = quality of life; STAI = state trait anxiety inventory; TSH = thyroid stimulating hormone; UFC = urinary free cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Belokovskaya
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Aarti Ravikumar
- Division of Endocrinology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Dushyanthy Arumugam
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sudeh Izadmehr
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Eliza B. Geer
- Multidisciplinary Pituitary and Skull Base Tumor Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Alice C. Levine
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, New York, USA
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Burgermeister E, Battaglin F, Eladly F, Wu W, Herweck F, Schulte N, Betge J, Härtel N, Kather JN, Weis CA, Gaiser T, Marx A, Weiss C, Hofheinz R, Miller IS, Loupakis F, Lenz HJ, Byrne AT, Ebert MP. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like (ARNTL/BMAL1) is associated with bevacizumab resistance in colorectal cancer via regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A. EBioMedicine 2019; 45:139-154. [PMID: 31300350 PMCID: PMC6642438 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of new biomarkers and the development of novel, targetable contexts of vulnerability are of urgent clinical need in drug-resistant metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Aryl-Hydrocarbon-Receptor-Nuclear-Translocator-Like (ARNTL/BMAL1) is a circadian clock-regulated transcription factor promoting expression of genes involved in angiogenesis and tumour progression. We hypothesised that BMAL1 increases expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor A VEGFA gene and, thereby, confers resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy with bevacizumab (Beva), a clinically used antibody for neutralization of VEGFA. METHODS PCR and immunohistochemistry were employed to assess BMAL1 expression in mice (C57BL/6 J Apcmin/+; BALB/c nu/nu xenografts) and CRC patients under combination chemotherapy with Beva. BMAL1 single nucleotide gene polymorphisms (SNPs) were analysed by DNA-microarray in clinical samples. BMAL1 functions were studied in human CRC cell lines using colorimetric growth, DNA-binding and reporter assays. FINDINGS In murine CRCs, high BMAL1 expression correlated with poor preclinical response to Beva treatment. In CRC patients' tumours (n = 74), high BMAL1 expression was associated with clinical non-response to combination chemotherapy with Beva (*p = .0061) and reduced progression-free survival (PFS) [*p = .0223, Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.69]. BMAL1 SNPs also correlated with shorter PFS (rs7396943, rs7938307, rs2279287) and overall survival (OS) [rs11022780, *p = .014, HR = 1.61]. Mechanistically, Nuclear-Receptor-Subfamily-1-Group-D-Member-1 (NR1D1/REVERBA) bound a - 672 bp Retinoic-Acid-Receptor-Related-Orphan-Receptor-Alpha-responsive-element (RORE) adjacent to a BMAL1 DNA-binding motif (E-box) in the VEGFA gene promoter, resulting in increased VEGFA synthesis and proliferation of human CRC cell lines. INTERPRETATION BMAL1 was associated with Beva resistance in CRC. Inhibition of REVERBA-BMAL1 signalling may prevent resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy. FUND: This work was in part supported by the European Commission Seventh Framework Programme (Contract No. 278981 [ANGIOPREDICT]).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Burgermeister
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Francesca Battaglin
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, United States; Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Clinical and Experimental Oncology Department, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Fagr Eladly
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Wen Wu
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frank Herweck
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nadine Schulte
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Johannes Betge
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nicolai Härtel
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jakob N Kather
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Hepatobiliary Oncology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Cleo-Aron Weis
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Timo Gaiser
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Marx
- Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christel Weiss
- Department of Medical Statistics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ralf Hofheinz
- Department of Medicine III, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ian S Miller
- Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fotios Loupakis
- Unit of Medical Oncology 1, Clinical and Experimental Oncology Department, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV - IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Heinz-Josef Lenz
- Division of Medical Oncology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, CA, United States
| | - Annette T Byrne
- Department of Physiology & Medical Physics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Matthias P Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Raff H, Phillips JM. Bedtime Salivary Cortisol and Cortisone by LC-MS/MS in Healthy Adult Subjects: Evaluation of Sampling Time. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1631-1640. [PMID: 31403090 PMCID: PMC6682408 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The measurement of late-night salivary cortisol is a mainstay in the diagnosis of Cushing syndrome. Furthermore, the measurement of salivary cortisol is useful in assessing the cortisol awakening response. Because the salivary glands express 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, the measurement of salivary cortisone may improve the performance of salivary corticosteroid measurements. We measured salivary cortisol by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and salivary cortisol and cortisone by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in only 50 µL of saliva sampled from 54 healthy subjects (aged 20 to 64 years). We allowed patients to sample at their normal bedtime (2025 to 2400 hours) to answer a common question as to whether sampling at the normal bedtime is equivalent to the standard required sampling at 2300 to 2400 hours. We found that the salivary cortisol and cortisone results by LC-MS/MS correlated well with salivary cortisol measured with the US Food and Drug Administration-cleared EIA. Furthermore, the upper limit of normal of salivary cortisol by EIA for bedtime samples was lower than the previously published upper limit of normal with sampling required at 2300 to 2400 hours. There were no significant effects of age or sex on any of the salivary steroid measurements. We conclude that (i) salivary cortisol and cortisone can be reliably measured by LC-MS/MS in small volumes of saliva and (ii) that patients can be evaluated using saliva sampled at their normal bedtime, rather than being required to stay awake until 2300 to 2400 hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hershel Raff
- Endocrine Research Laboratory, Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center, Aurora Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Departments of Medicine, Surgery, and Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Jonathan M Phillips
- Endocrine Research Laboratory, Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center, Aurora Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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40
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Harrison RF, Debono M, Whitaker MJ, Keevil BG, Newell-Price J, Ross RJ. Salivary Cortisone to Estimate Cortisol Exposure and Sampling Frequency Required Based on Serum Cortisol Measurements. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:765-772. [PMID: 30285244 PMCID: PMC6349003 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-01172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Population studies frequently measure cortisol as a marker of stress, and excess cortisol is associated with increased mortality. Cortisol has a circadian rhythm, and frequent blood sampling is impractical to assess cortisol exposure. We investigated measuring salivary cortisone and examined the sampling frequency required to determine cortisol exposure. METHODS Serum and saliva with cortisol and cortisone were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in independent cohorts. The relationship between serum cortisol and salivary cortisone was analyzed in cohort 1 using a linear mixed effects model. The resulting fixed effects component was applied to cohort 2. Saliva cannot easily be collected when a patient is sleeping, so we determined the minimum sampling required to estimate cortisol exposure [estimated area under the curve (eAUC)] using 24-hour cortisol profiles (AUC24) and calculated the relative error (RE) for eAUC. RESULTS More than 90% of variability in salivary cortisone could be accounted for by change in serum cortisol. A single serum cortisol measurement was a poor estimate of AUC24, especially in the morning or last thing at night (RE >68%); however, three equally spaced samples gave a median RE of 0% (interquartile range, -15.6% to 15.1%). In patients with adrenal incidentalomas, eAUC based on three serum cortisol samples showed a difference between those with autonomous cortisol secretion and those without (P = 0.03). INTERPRETATION Accepting that most people sleep 7 to 8 hours, ∼8-hourly salivary cortisone measurements provide a noninvasive method of estimating 24-hour cortisol exposure for population studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert F Harrison
- Faculties of Medicine and Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Miguel Debono
- Faculties of Medicine and Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Martin J Whitaker
- Faculties of Medicine and Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Brian G Keevil
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - John Newell-Price
- Faculties of Medicine and Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Ross
- Faculties of Medicine and Engineering, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Richard J. Ross, MD, Room EU14 Floor E, The Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom. E-mail:
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41
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Giorgi RB, Correa MV, Costa-Barbosa FA, Kater CE. Cyclic Subclinical Hypercortisolism: A Previously Unidentified Hypersecretory Form of Adrenal Incidentalomas. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:678-686. [PMID: 30854503 PMCID: PMC6399707 DOI: 10.1210/js.2018-00385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Most adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) are nonfunctioning adenomas (NFAs), but up to 30% may secrete cortisol autonomously without clinical evidence of Cushing syndrome (CS), which nevertheless may increase cardiovascular mortality. This subclinical hypercortisolism (SCH) is confirmed by cortisol resistance to a dexamethasone suppression test (DST). Cyclic cortisol secretion occurs in classic CS but was not reported in SCH. Objective Investigate cyclic cortisol production/autonomy in AIs using sequential DSTs. Methods A total of 251 patients with AI underwent 487 DSTs over 12 years; patients with at least three DSTs were selected. DSTs were validated by measuring serum dexamethasone. Cyclic SCH was defined when at least two abnormal and two normal DSTs were documented. Results A total of 44 patients had three or more DSTs during follow-up: 9 of 44 patients (20.4%) had all negative test results (post-DST cortisol ≤1.8 μg/dL) and were classified as NFA; another nine patients had all positive results (cortisol >1.8 μg/dL) and were classified as sustained SCH. The remaining 26 (59.2%) had discordant responses: 8 of 44 (18.3%) had at least two positive and two negative tests, matching the criterion for cyclic SCH, whereas 18 of 44 (40.9%) had only one discordant test and were classified as possibly cyclic SCH. Eleven of 20 (55%) patients initially classified as NFA did not maintain their cortisol pattern. Conclusions Extended follow-up with repeated DSTs uncovered an unusual subset of AIs with cyclic SCH. Recurring production of cortisol may affect determination of AI subtypes if based on just one DST. Lack of recognition of this phenomenon makes follow-up of patients with AI misleading because even cyclic SCH may result in potential cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael B Giorgi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo V Correa
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia A Costa-Barbosa
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Claudio E Kater
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP) Medical School, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Babinska A, Kaszubowski M, Kmieć P, Sworczak K. Adipokine and cytokine levels in patients with adrenocortical cancer, subclinical Cushing's syndrome and healthy controls. Steroids 2018; 140:39-44. [PMID: 30194955 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years researchers have focused at hormonal activity in Cushing's syndrome (CS) in connection with metabolic disorders and the role of adipokines and cytokines secreted by the adipose tissue. The aim of the study was to investigate levels of adipokines and cytokines in patients with: subclinical CS (SCS) - in relation to hormonal parameters of hypercortisolemia, and, adrenocortical cancer (ACC). MATERIALS AND METHODS The study included 20 SCS as well as 7 ACC patients, and 18 healthy participants. Hormonal activity and serum concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, resistin, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin 6 (IL6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1), were analyzed. RESULTS In SCS patients compared to healthy volunteers a trend toward higher concentrations of all pro-inflammatory cytokines was noted, however, statistically significant differences were only found for TNFα and IL6 (p = 0.047 and p = 0.028, respectively). Adiponectin concentrations were significantly lower in the SCS group (p = 0.006). Serum adipokine and cytokine levels were independent of the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HT) in the SCS group. A significant correlation was found between subclinical glucocorticoid secretion and IL6 concentration (Pearson's r = 0.517, p = 0.02). Acquired results were independent of BMI. In ACC patients compared to controls higher IL6, TNFα and MCP1 levels were recorded. CONCLUSION It is possible that higher adipokine and pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations as well as lower anti-inflammatory adiponectin concentrations comprise an additional risk factor of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in SCS patients. It seems that at least among patients with SCS adipokine and cytokine secretion is independent of hormonal activity (except for IL6).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Babinska
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Dębinki 7, 80-288 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Mariusz Kaszubowski
- Institute of Statistics, Department of Economic Sciences, Faculty of Management and Economics, Gdansk University of Technology, ul. Traugutta 79, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Piotr Kmieć
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Dębinki 7, 80-288 Gdansk, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Sworczak
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Gdansk, ul. Dębinki 7, 80-288 Gdansk, Poland.
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Abstract
During the last 20 years, a significant body of literature has accumulated regarding subclinical hypercortisolism in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. Retrospective studies have indicated these patients have an increase in cardiovascular events and mortality. Current recommendations for patients with adrenal incidentalomas include an overnight low-dose dexamethasone suppression test and a thorough evaluation of cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors. Further hormonal testing and close monitoring are necessary in patients with incomplete suppression. Unilateral adrenalectomy may be beneficial in cases with abnormal suppression and comorbidities related to hypercortisolemia. Prospective studies are need for a better risk stratification and tailored therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Zavatta
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy
| | - Guido Di Dalmazi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Via Massarenti 9, Bologna 40138, Italy.
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Morelli V, Palmieri S. Adrenal incidentaloma: differential diagnosis and management strategies. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2018; 44:4-18. [PMID: 29808642 DOI: 10.23736/s0391-1977.18.02868-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal incidentaloma is a frequent clinical finding. Once an adrenal mass is detected, is mandatory to determine whether the lesion is malignant or benign and whether it is hormonally active or non-functioning, to estabilish an adequate treatement or follow-up. The European Society of Endocrinology and ENSAT Guideline recently provided the best recommendation based on the available literature. However, due to the retrospective design of the majority of the studies, the small number of patients included and the inadequate follow-up, some issues are still unresolved. In particular, there is a general consensus about the need of adrenalectomy in the presence of unilateral adrenal mass and clinically relevant hormone excess or radiological findings suspected for malignancy. On the other side, how to manage adrenal masses with indeterminate characteristics or subtle cortisol secretion, and how long the radiological and functional follow-up of benign adrenal mass should last in non-operated patients, are still open questions. Therefore, high-quality research for establish the adequate management of these patients and randomized clinical trials are needed to avoid unnecessary investigations and invasive procedures and ensure a clinically effective work-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Morelli
- Unit of Endocrinology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy -
| | - Serena Palmieri
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Bertagna X. MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Can we cure Cushing's disease? A personal view. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 178:R183-R200. [PMID: 29467229 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
One of today's challenges in endocrinology is the treatment of Cushing's disease: Although pituitary surgery has the potential to 'cure' the patient and restore a completely normal pituitary adrenal axis, there are immediate failures and late recurrences that will ultimately require alternate therapeutic approaches. Their high number is in direct correlation with their serious limitations and they all appear to be 'default options'. This 'personal view' tries to shed some light on the inescapable difficulties of the current treatments of Cushing's disease and to provide some optimistic view for the future where the pituitary adenoma should be the 'reasonable obsession' of a successful therapeutist.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Bertagna
- Service des Maladies Endocriniennes et MétaboliquesCentre de Référence des Maladies Rares de la Surrénale, Hôpital Cochin, Faculté de Médecine Paris Descartes, Université Paris 5, Paris, France
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Tabarin A. Do the diagnostic criteria for subclinical hypercortisolism exist? ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2018; 79:146-148. [PMID: 29661471 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2018.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
"Subclinical hypercortisolism" (SH) refers to a condition associated with a mild chronic increase in cortisol secretion. By definition, patients with SH do not exhibit specific symptoms of overt Cushing's syndrome (such as purple striae, easy bruising, proximal muscle weakness), SH has been preferred to "subclinical Cushing's syndrome", a semantic ambiguity since Cushing's syndrome is, by definition, a set of symptoms; and to the term "preclinical Cushing syndrome" because the progression toward overt clinical hypercortisolism is very rare. However, SH still is misnomer as a number of studies suggest that this condition may induce long-term non-specific adverse conditions related to the mild cortisol excess (i.e. diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and osteoporosis). Various attempts have been made to define SH that remains a matter of controversies and uncertainties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Tabarin
- Department of endocrinology, diabetes and nutrition, CHU de Bordeaux, hopital Haut-Lévêque, 33604 Pessac, France.
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Morelli V, Arosio M, Chiodini I. Cardiovascular mortality in patients with subclinical Cushing. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2018; 79:149-152. [PMID: 29606280 DOI: 10.1016/j.ando.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Patients with adrenal incidentaloma (AI) and subclinical hypercortisolism (SH) show a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and an increased prevalence and incidence of cardiovascular events. Furthermore, some recent data suggest that in these patients, the cardiovascular mortality is also increased. Unfortunately, to date, the diagnosis of SH is still a matter of debate, and, therefore, it is still not possible to address the treatment of choice (i.e. surgical or conservative approach) in many AI patients. Overall, the available data show that in AI patients with established SH the surgical removal of the adrenal mass causing SH can lead to the improvement of hypertension and diabetes, but in many patients with possible SH the effect of surgery is still largely unknown. Finally, no data are available on the effect of the recovery from SH on the cardiovascular events. Therefore, randomized studies are needed to investigate the possibility of predicting the usefulness of surgery by using the available indexes of cortisol secretion in the individual AI patient. Finally, the development of safe and well-tolerated drugs aimed to control cortisol secretion will be among the goals of the future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Morelli
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Padiglione Granelli, via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Maura Arosio
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Padiglione Granelli, via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Iacopo Chiodini
- Endocrinology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Padiglione Granelli, via F. Sforza 35, 20122 Milano, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
The daily rhythm of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is regulated by the central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid, acts as a secondary messenger between the central clock and the peripheral tissues. Changes in clock time, as seen in shift workers, alters the HPA axis and results in metabolic disturbances associated with ill health. Depression, anorexia nervosa and obstructive sleep apnoea, are associated with cortisol rhythm phase shifts and increased cortisol exposure. Higher nocturnal cortisol exposure is observed in patients with Cushing's syndrome and adrenal incidentalomas with autonomous cortisol secretion and is associated with insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular risk and mortality. A decrease in cortisol rhythm amplitude is seen in adrenal insufficiency, and despite replacement, patients have an impaired quality of life and increased mortality. Research on cortisol replacement has focused on replacing the cortisol daily rhythm by subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusions and oral modified release hydrocortisone formulations with the aim of improving disease control and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Ross
- Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
| | - Miguel Debono
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK.
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