Treatment
The best treatment for ectopic Cushing syndrome is surgery to remove the tumor. Surgery is usually possible when the tumor is noncancerous (benign).
In some cases, the tumor is cancerous and spreads to other areas of the body before the health care provider can discover the problem with cortisol production. Surgery may not be possible in these cases, but the doctor may prescribe drugs to block cortisol production.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Surgery to remove the tumor may lead to full recovery, but there is a chance that the tumor will come back.
Complications
The tumor may spread or return after surgery. High cortisol levels may continue.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of Cushing syndrome.
-
Ectopic Cushing syndrome : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Ectopic Cushing syndrome : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
-
Ectopic Cushing syndrome : Treatment
Review Date : 9/20/2008
Reviewed By : David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
