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Lupus & Cushing's Disease

Lupus and Cushing̵7;s syndrome are two seemingly unrelated illnesses. Lupus patients often have low levels of the hormone cortisol, while Cushing̵7;s disease is caused by increased cortisol. The treatments for Lupus can lead to exogenous Cushing's syndrome.

  1. Lupus Treatments

    • Corticosteroids or steroid hormones are prescribed to help ease the pain and inflammation caused by lupus. The steroids can be given by injection, orally, inhalants or creams.

    Exogenous Cushing's

    • Taking steroids, such as Prednisone, for extended periods of time can lead to a build up of cortisol in the body. Outside sources of cortisol lead to exogenous Cushing̵7;s disease, which has the same symptoms as endogenous Cushing's disease.

    Endogenous Cushing's

    • Endogenous Cushing̵7;s disease occurs when the body produces excess cortisol. Natural causes of Cushing̵7;s are damaged or diseased adrenal glands, pituitary tumors, or a tumor that produces hormones.

    Symptoms

    • Cushing̵7;s disease causes weight gain, fatigue, acne, bone loss, depression, rounded features and glucose intolerance.

    Warning

    • Anyone taking corticosteroids should be aware of any physical changes and report them to a doctor immediately.

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