Cushing's Syndrome

Cushing’s syndrome is a disorder where the body is exposed to higher than normal levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid hormone typically released from the kidneys following a precise chain of events that occur in reaction to stress. Cortisol is one of the main steroid hormones responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism, or the breakdown and storage of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Taking glucocorticoids such as prednisone to treat conditions like asthma and other inflammatory diseases or to prevent the body from rejecting transplanted tissues can also cause Cushing’s syndrome. These glucocorticoids are similar to cortisol and cause the same negative side effects.

How does cortisol contribute to stretch marks?

High levels of cortisol or exposure to glucocorticoids may cause quick and unexpected weight gain because the body will store more proteins, carbohydrates and fats rather than break them down. Stretch marks occur because the skin isn’t ready for this weight gain, and the collagen in the skin is disrupted, causing ridges in the skin. People with Cushing’s syndrome may notice purplish or pink stretch marks on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, or breasts.

Your stretch marks may not always be a sign of Cushing’s syndrome. Other symptoms include high blood pressure and blood glucose, weak muscles, severe fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles in women and decreased fertility in men. There are several diagnostic tests for Cushing’s syndrome, and treatment is usually aimed at stopping the source of extra cortisol production.

For more information regarding Cushing’s syndrome and coping with the condition, see these weblinks

http://endocrine.niddk.nih.gov/pubs/cushings/cushings.htm

http://www.csrf.net/page/the_basics.php

and check out the "Conditions" section of stretchmarks1.com