1
|
Omotosho YB, McGlotten R, Pacak K, Wierman ME, Nieman LK. A Rare Cyclic Cushing Syndrome Mystery Illustrates Diagnostic Principles. JCEM CASE REPORTS 2024; 2:luae094. [PMID: 38915761 PMCID: PMC11194838 DOI: 10.1210/jcemcr/luae094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Pheochromocytomas predominantly produce catecholamines, and rarely also produce ACTH, causing Cushing syndrome (CS). Cyclic CS, an uncommon presentation of hypercortisolism, poses a diagnostic challenge. We report a 71-year-old woman who developed cyclic ectopic ACTH secretion from a pheochromocytoma. Previous evaluations showed intermittent elevations in cortisol and ACTH levels, normal pituitary magnetic resonance imaging, and an adrenal nodule. On admission, she was hypertensive and had cushingoid features. Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling with desmopressin stimulation and an 8-mg dexamethasone suppression test suggested ectopic ACTH secretion, but ACTH increased during the peripheral desmopressin stimulation test. Plasma normetanephrines were about 2-fold above the upper reference limit. 18F-fluoro-dopa and 68Gallium-DOTATATE positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging identified an adrenal mass. After doxazosin adrenoceptor blockade, she underwent right adrenalectomy; histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed an ACTH-secreting pheochromocytoma. Postoperative blood pressure normalized and serum cortisol and plasma ACTH levels were suppressed, requiring physiologic hydrocortisone replacement. This case underscores the importance of considering pheochromocytoma in ACTH-dependent hypercortisolism with elevated metanephrines and an adrenal mass. Timely diagnosis and treatment can reduce morbidity and improve quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yetunde Bernice Omotosho
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Raven McGlotten
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Karel Pacak
- Section on Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health, and Human Development, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Margaret E Wierman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Lynnette K Nieman
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Courcelles L, Stoenoiu M, Haufroid V, Lopez-Sublet M, Boland L, Wauthier L, Beauloye C, Maiter D, Januszewicz A, Kreutz R, Persu A, Gruson D. Laboratory Testing for Endocrine Hypertension: Current and Future Perspectives. Clin Chem 2024; 70:709-726. [PMID: 38484135 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvae022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secondary hypertension (SH) is a form of high blood pressure caused by an identifiable underlying condition. Although, it accounts for a small fraction of the overall hypertensive population, detection and management of SH is of utmost importance, because SH phenotypes carry a high cardiovascular risk and can possibly be cured by timely treatment. CONTENT This review focuses on the endocrine causes of SH, such as primary aldosteronism, Cushing syndrome, thyroid disease, pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, acromegaly, and rare monogenic forms. It discusses current biomarkers, analytical methods, and diagnostic strategies, highlighting advantages and limitations of each approach. It also explores the emerging -omics technologies that can provide a comprehensive and multidimensional assessment of SH and its underlying mechanisms. SUMMARY Endocrine SH is a heterogeneous and complex condition that requires proper screening and confirmatory tests to avoid diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes. Careful biomarker interpretation is essential due to potential interferences, variability, and method-dependent differences. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry is a superior method for measuring low-concentration hormones and metabolites involved in SH, but it requires expertise. Omics approaches have great potential to identify novel biomarkers, pathways, and targets for SH diagnosis and treatment, especially considering its multifactorial nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louisiane Courcelles
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Stoenoiu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vincent Haufroid
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Louvain centre for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (LTAP), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marilucy Lopez-Sublet
- AP-HP, Hôpital Avicenne, Centre d'Excellence Européen en Hypertension Artérielle, Service de Médecine Interne, Paris, France
- INSERM UMR 942 MASCOT, Paris 13-Université Paris Nord, Bobigny, France
- FCRIN INI-CRCT (Cardiovascular and Renal Clinical Trialists), CHRU de Nancy - Hôpitaux de Brabois, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
- Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lidvine Boland
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Louvain centre for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (LTAP), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Loris Wauthier
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Beauloye
- Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dominique Maiter
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andrzej Januszewicz
- Department of Hypertension, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Reinhold Kreutz
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexandre Persu
- Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Damien Gruson
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc and Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vignesh V, Castro-Dominguez B, James TD, Gamble-Turner JM, Lightman S, Reis NM. Advancements in Cortisol Detection: From Conventional Methods to Next-Generation Technologies for Enhanced Hormone Monitoring. ACS Sens 2024; 9:1666-1681. [PMID: 38551608 PMCID: PMC11059103 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c01912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The hormone cortisol, released as the end-product of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, has a well-characterized circadian rhythm that enables an allostatic response to external stressors. When the pattern of secretion is disrupted, cortisol levels are chronically elevated, contributing to diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, mental health disorders, and diabetes. The diagnosis of chronic stress and stress related disorders depends upon accurate measurement of cortisol levels; currently, it is quantified using mass spectroscopy or immunoassay, in specialized laboratories with trained personnel. However, these methods are time-consuming, expensive and are unable to capture the dynamic biorhythm of the hormone. This critical review traces the path of cortisol detection from traditional laboratory-based methods to decentralised cortisol monitoring biosensors. A complete picture of cortisol biology and pathophysiology is provided, and the importance of precision medicine style monitoring of cortisol is highlighted. Antibody-based immunoassays still dominate the pipeline of development of point-of-care biosensors; new capture molecules such as aptamers and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) combined with technologies such as microfluidics, wearable electronics, and quantum dots offer improvements to limit of detection (LoD), specificity, and a shift toward rapid or continuous measurements. While a variety of different sensors and devices have been proposed, there still exists a need to produce quantitative tests for cortisol ─ using either rapid or continuous monitoring devices that can enable a personalized medicine approach to stress management. This can be addressed by synergistic combinations of technologies that can leverage low sample volumes, relevant limit of detection and rapid testing time, to better account for cortisol's shifting biorhythm. Trends in cortisol diagnostics toward rapid and continuous monitoring of hormones are highlighted, along with insights into choice of sample matrix.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Visesh Vignesh
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Centre for Bioengineering and Biomedical
Technologies (CBio) University of Bath, BA2 7AY Bath, U.K.
| | - Bernardo Castro-Dominguez
- Department
of Chemical and Engineering and Digital Manufacturing and Design University
of Bath, BA2 7AY Bath, U.K.
| | - Tony D. James
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Bath, BA2 7AY Bath, U.K.
| | | | - Stafford Lightman
- Translational
Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS1 3NY Bristol, U.K.
| | - Nuno M. Reis
- Department
of Chemical Engineering and Centre for Bioengineering and Biomedical
Technologies (CBio) University of Bath, BA2 7AY Bath, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mirzaian M, van Zundert SKM, Schilleman WF, Mohseni M, Kuckuck S, van Rossum EFC, van Schaik RHN, van den Berg SAA. Determination of cortisone and cortisol in human scalp hair using an improved LC-MS/MS-based method. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:118-127. [PMID: 37485925 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0341] [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: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human scalp hair is an easily available but complex matrix for determination of cortisone and cortisol, and has been shown to reflect long-term glucocorticoid exposure. Hair glucocorticoid analysis has been used to detect hypo- and hypercortisolism. In this study, we describe the development and validation of a LC-MS/MS method for quantification of cortisone and cortisol in human scalp hair, and provide a novel approach for analysis and interpretation of the results. METHODS Improved sample preparation using pulverization and solid phase extraction allowed for low sample volumes (10 mg). Baseline chromatographic separation without matrix interference was achieved by reversed phase chromatography and MRM measurement in negative ion mode. Run-to-run time was 8 min. Mixed model analyses were performed to create individual patterns of cortisone and cortisol concentrations. RESULTS Matrix matched calibration curves showed excellent linearity up to 100 pg (analyte)/mg (hair) for both cortisone and cortisol (R2>0.995). LLOQ was 1.5 and 1.0 pg/mg for cortisone and cortisol, respectively. Matrix effect was negligible for hair color (recoveries 95-105 %). Cortisone and cortisol concentrations decreased from proximal to distal hair segments, following a predictable, but subject-specific pattern, with less individual variation for cortisone than for cortisol. CONCLUSIONS This improved LC-MS/MS method is able to accurately quantify cortisone and cortisol in human hair with minimum matrix interference. This new way of data analysis and interpretation including individual patterns of cortisone and cortisol will be of help with detection of pathological concentrations in both the high - and the low ranges of glucocorticoids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mina Mirzaian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sofie K M van Zundert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wim F Schilleman
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mostafa Mohseni
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Kuckuck
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth F C van Rossum
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron H N van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd A A van den Berg
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang WR, Liang XH, Qin YF, Yang HY, He SZ, Huang ZX, Liu YP, Luo ZJ. Germline PRKACA amplification-associated primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease: a case report and literature review. ARCHIVES OF ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM 2023; 68:e220491. [PMID: 37988664 PMCID: PMC10916803 DOI: 10.20945/2359-4292-2022-0491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD) is a rare adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH)-independent Cushing's syndrome (CS). Pediatric patients with PPNAD typically have unusual skin lesions and slow growth with unknown causes. We present a case of a female Chinese patient with PPNAD caused by the germline PRKACA gene copy number gain of chromosome 19. The patient initially presented with kidney stones, short stature, and obesity. After further testing, it was discovered that the patient had diabetes, mild hypertension, low bone mass, a low ACTH level, and hypercortisolemia, and neither the low-dose or high-dose dexamethasone suppression test was able to inhibit hematuric cortisol, which paradoxically increased. PPNAD was pathologically diagnosed after unilateral adrenalectomy. Chromosome microarrays and whole exon sequencing analyses of the peripheral blood, as well as testing of sectioned adrenal tissue, showed a rise in the copy number of the duplication-containing PRKACA gene on chromosome 19p13.13p13.12, a de novo but not heritable gene defect that causes disease. The clinical signs and symptoms supported the diagnosis of Carney complex (CNC). One significant mechanism of CNC pathogenesis may be the rise in germline PRKACA copy number of chromosome 19. When assessing PPNAD patients for CNC, the possibility of PRKACA gene amplification should be considered. The effect of PRKACA gene amplification on the clinical manifestations of CNC needs to be confirmed by more cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Rong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- Department of Endocrinology, the Ruikang Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xing-Huan Liang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Ying-Fen Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Hai-Yan Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shu-Zhan He
- Department of Endocrinology, the Ruikang Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Zhen-Xing Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yu-Ping Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Zuo-Jie Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Дзеранова ЛК, Доровских АВ, Пигарова ЕА, Лапшина АМ, Воротникова СЮ, Шутова АС, Перепелова МА, Григорьев АЮ, Азизян ВН. [Cyclic Cushing's syndrome: difficulties of diagnostic search and choice of treatment tactics. A clinical case]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2023; 69:8-14. [PMID: 36842073 PMCID: PMC9978871 DOI: 10.14341/probl13140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic Cushing's syndrome is a pathological condition characterized by alternating periods of excessive cortisol secretion with corresponding clinical manifestations and periods of spontaneous remission of the disease.To diagnose Cyclic Cushing's syndrome it is necessary to record at least three episodes of excessive cortisol secretion alternating with periods of normalization of its production.In most cases, this pathology is diagnosed in patients with ACTH-secreting pituitary tumor, however, there are rare cases of cyclic hypercorticism with ectopic ACTH secretion by tumors of different localization and without verification of pathological hormonal secretion focus. In addition, cyclic hyperproduction of cortisol can be also observed in ACTH-independent Cushing's syndrome associated with the presence of corticosteroma or adrenal hyperplasia. The exact causes and mechanisms of the cyclic hypercorticism are currently insufficiently studied.Due to the atypical course of the disease, the unpredictability of the occurrence of a new «cycle», the variability of its duration and manifestations (not only in different patients, but also in the same patient), verification of the diagnosis and determination of treatment tactics may be difficult in the daily practice of specialists, and the prevalence of this condition can be undervalued.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Л. К. Дзеранова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - А. В. Доровских
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - Е. А. Пигарова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - А. М. Лапшина
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | | | - А. С. Шутова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | | | - А. Ю. Григорьев
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - В. Н. Азизян
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kober P, Rusetska N, Mossakowska BJ, Maksymowicz M, Pękul M, Zieliński G, Styk A, Kunicki J, Działach Ł, Witek P, Bujko M. The expression of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors in pituitary tumors causing Cushing's disease and silent corticotroph tumors. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1124646. [PMID: 37065760 PMCID: PMC10090509 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1124646] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pituitary neuroendocrine corticotroph tumors commonly cause Cushing's disease (CD) that results from increased adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secretion by the pituitary tumor and consequent increase of cortisol levels in blood. However, in some patients, corticotroph tumors remain clinically non-functioning. Cortisol secretion is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and includes a negative feedback between cortisol and ACTH secretion. Glucocorticoids reduce ACTH level both by hypothalamic regulation and acting on corticotrophs via glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid (MR) receptors. The aim of the study was to determine the role of GR and MR expression at mRNA and protein levels in both functioning and silent corticotroph tumors. METHODS Ninety-five patients were enrolled, including 70 with CD and 25 with silent corticotroph tumors. Gene expression levels of NR3C1 and NR3C2 coding for GR and MR, respectively, were determined with qRT-PCR in the two tumor types. GR and MR protein abundance was assessed with immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Both GR and MR were expressed in corticotroph tumors. Correlation between NR3C1 and NR3C2 expression levels was observed. NR3C1 expression was higher in silent than in functioning tumors. In CD patients NR3C1 and NR3C2 levels were negatively correlated with morning plasma ACTH levels and tumor size. Higher NR3C2 was confirmed in patients with remission after surgery and in densely granulated tumors. Expression of both genes and GR protein was higher in USP8-mutated tumors. Similar relationship between USP8 mutations and expression levels were observed in analysis of silent tumors that also revealed a negative correlation between GR and tumor size and higher NR3C1 expression in densely granulated tumors. CONCLUSIONS Although the associations between gene/protein expression and patients clinical features are not strong, they consistently show an evident trend in which higher receptor expression corresponds to more favorable clinical characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Kober
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Rusetska
- Department of Experimental Immunotherapy, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata J. Mossakowska
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Maksymowicz
- Department of Cancer Pathomorphology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Pękul
- Department of Cancer Pathomorphology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Zieliński
- Department of Neurosurgery, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Styk
- Department of Neurosurgery, Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Kunicki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Działach
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Witek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Bujko
- Department of Molecular and Translational Oncology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
- *Correspondence: Mateusz Bujko,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Balomenaki M, Margaritopoulos D, Vassiliadi DA, Tsagarakis S. Diagnostic workup of Cushing's syndrome. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13111. [PMID: 35979805 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13111] [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: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare but detrimental endocrine disorder. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential since the duration of hypercortisolism has an adverse impact on the extent of comorbidities and overall survival. The diagnostic approach involves a stepwise process that includes (1) screening and confirming the diagnosis and (2) establishing the aetiology of CS. The tests currently used to confirm the diagnosis of CS include urinary free cortisol measurements, the dexamethasone suppression test and late- night salivary cortisol or midnight serum cortisol measurements. None of these tests are ideal; all have pitfalls and require careful interpretation. Following confirmation of CS, measurement of ACTH discriminates between ACTH-dependent and non-ACTH dependent causes of CS. Adrenal imaging provides clues for the aetiology of non-ACTH dependent forms. Differentiation between the ACTH-dependent forms that involve pituitary corticotroph adenomas and ectopic ACTH sources is more complex and include pituitary MRI imaging, the high dose dexamethasone suppression test, the CRH test, bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling and, when required imaging modalities to detect ectopic ACTH secreting lesions. This review, which is part of a special issue on "Update of Cushing's syndrome: 100 years after Minnie G" will provide an update on our current diagnostic workup for the confirmation and differential diagnosis of CS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Balomenaki
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Evangelismos Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cortisol as an Independent Predictor of Unfavorable Outcomes in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071527. [PMID: 35884833 PMCID: PMC9313159 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Most cases of COVID-19 are non-severe, but some patients require urgent hospital care. In the past, it has been established that adrenal hyperactivity predicts poorer prognosis in severely ill patients. We wanted to verify if cortisol levels can be tied to clinical outcomes and the degree of inflammation in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We recruited 180 adult patients with PCR-confirmed COVID-19. The group was divided into smaller subgroups based on the glucocorticoid treatment status; the subgroups were evaluated in three separate time points. The assessment involved hormonal function (cortisol, ACTH), inflammatory markers, and occurrence of the pre-selected endpoints (death, hospitalization ≥10 days, non-invasive ventilation or high-flow oxygenation, mechanical ventilation, vasopressors). In the evaluated group, 121 patients showed signs of abnormal adrenal function. There was a clear correlation between cortisol and IL-6 concentrations in all three time points regardless of glucocorticoid treatment. A total of 71.1% of patients displaying abnormal cortisol production met the preselected endpoints. Our analysis showed that a cutoff cortisol concentration prognosing endpoint occurrence could be set at 15.45 μg/dL for patients not treated with glucocorticoids. Cortisol concentration can be seen as an independent prognostic factor for unfavorable outcomes in selected adults hospitalized with COVID-19.
Collapse
|
10
|
Gonzalez D, Maidana P, Ibar C, Jamardo J, Jacobsen D, Fritzler A, Fortuna F, Fernandez G, Lamas-Majek E, Mallea-Gil S, Ballarino C, Onetto C, Lopez M, Mesch V, Fabre B. Hair cortisol in polycystic ovary syndrome. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10309. [PMID: 35725989 PMCID: PMC9209522 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14061-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate adrenal axis hyperactivation measuring hair cortisol levels, and its influence on the relationship among metabolic parameters, inflammation markers and androgens in adult women with PCOS. 44 women (18–34 years) with PCOS diagnosis and a control group of 49 healthy women (19–35 years) were included. In both gropus body mass index (BMI) was calculated and waist circumference (WC) was measured. Hair cortisol, total serum testosterone (TT), serum cortisol, 25 OH vitamin D (25OHD), insulin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), triglycerides (TG), HDL cholesterol (HDL), glucose and leptin were measured. Bioavailable testosterone (bioT) was calculated. Hair cortisol concentration was higher and significantly different in PCOS patients compared to the control group (130 vs 63 pg/mg of hair, p < 0.001). Subsequently, patients with PCOS were divided into two groups according to hair cortisol levels: group 1 with normal hair cortisol concentration and group 2 with levels above the upper limit of the reference values (128 pg/mg of hair). In group 2, TT significantly correlated with 25OHD, hsCRP, TG/HDL index, BMI, WC, insulin and HOMA (p < 0.05); bioT correlated with hsCRP and leptin (p < 0.05). Finally, 25OHD was inversely correlated with leptin and with TG/HDL index (p < 0.05). High hair cortisol concentration in patients with PCOS confirmed hyperactivation of the HPA axis. The associations observed were only found in patients with PCOS with high hair cortisol levels (> 128 pg/mg of hair), showing a possible effect of HPA axis in these associations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Gonzalez
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - P Maidana
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Ibar
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - J Jamardo
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D Jacobsen
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Fritzler
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F Fortuna
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Fernandez
- División Ginecología, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2351 (1120), Córdoba, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - E Lamas-Majek
- División Ginecología, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2351 (1120), Córdoba, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - S Mallea-Gil
- Servicio de Endocrinología, Hospital Militar Central, Luis María Campos, 726 (1426), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Ballarino
- Servicio de Endocrinología, Hospital Militar Central, Luis María Campos, 726 (1426), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C Onetto
- División Ginecología, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2351 (1120), Córdoba, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Lopez
- División Ginecología, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires, 2351 (1120), Córdoba, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Viviana Mesch
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - B Fabre
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica-Instituto de Fisiopatología y Bioquímica Clínica (INFIBIOC), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 956 (1113), Junín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lam-Chung CE, Cuevas-Ramos D. The promising role of risk scoring system for Cushing syndrome: Time to reconsider current screening recommendations. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1075785. [PMID: 36482998 PMCID: PMC9725023 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1075785] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the current screening approach for Cushing syndrome (CS), delayed diagnosis is common due to broad spectrum of presentation, poor discriminant symptoms featured in diabetes and obesity, and low clinical index of suspicion. Even if initial tests are recommended to screen CS, divergent results are not infrequent. As global prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity increases, CS may not be frequent enough to back routine screening to avoid false-positive results. This represents a greater challenge in countries with limited health resources. The development of indexes incorporates clinical features and biochemical data that are largely used to provide a tool to predict the presence of disease. In clinical endocrinology, indexes have been used in Graves' ophthalmology, hirsutism, and hypothyroidism. The use of clinical risk scoring system may assist clinicians in discriminating CS in the context of at-risk populations and, thus, may provide a potential intervention to decrease time to diagnosis. Development and validation of clinical model to estimate pre-test probability of CS in different geographic source population may help to establish regional prediction model for CS. Here, we review on the latest progress in clinical risk scoring system for CS and attempt to raise awareness for the use, validation, and/or development of clinical risk scores in CS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- CE. Lam-Chung
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Complejo Hospitalario Dr. Manuel Amador Guerrero, Colón, Panama
| | - D. Cuevas-Ramos
- Neuroendocrinology Clinic, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
- *Correspondence: D. Cuevas-Ramos,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chiodini I, Gennari L. Grand Challenge in Adrenal Endocrinology: Is the Legacy of the Past a Challenge for the Future of Precision Medicine? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:747006. [PMID: 34539585 PMCID: PMC8446680 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.747006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- 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
| | - Luigi Gennari
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Berlińska A, Świątkowska-Stodulska R, Sworczak K. Old Problem, New Concerns: Hypercortisolemia in the Time of COVID-19. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:711612. [PMID: 34675878 PMCID: PMC8524078 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.711612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic forced a change in the way we provide medical treatment. Endocrinology in the era of COVID-19 had to transform and reduce its vast potential to the absolute necessities. Medical professionals needed to update their clinical practice to provide their patients as much support and as little harm as possible in these increasingly difficult times. International expert statements were published to offer guidance regarding proper care. It was suggested to simplify the diagnostic scheme of hypercortisolemia and to modify the approach to treatment. Hypercortisolemic patients with COVID-19 and iatrogenic hypercortisolemia due to glucocorticoid use are important clinical scenarios - we aimed to provide a cohesive summary of issues to consider.
Collapse
|