Cushing’s disease is an endocrine disorder that occurs when the body produces an excessive amount of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and plays a role in the body’s stress response, metabolic balance, blood pressure regulation, and immune system function. However, the long-term presence of this hormone at high levels leads to serious health problems.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains that Cushing’s disease is mostly caused by a tumor (adenoma) that develops in the pituitary gland. This tumor secretes excessive adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which increases cortisol production.
Although this disease is rare, its diagnosis and treatment require special expertise. If not diagnosed in time, it can lead to permanent problems such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis.
Cushing’s syndrome includes all conditions that lead to elevated cortisol levels in the body.
Cushing’s disease, on the other hand, is the form that originates specifically from the pituitary gland. In other words, every Cushing’s disease is a Cushing’s syndrome, but not every Cushing’s syndrome is Cushing’s disease.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that this distinction is crucial in terms of treatment approach, as surgical planning changes depending on the source of the disease.
The primary cause of Cushing’s disease is a small, benign tumor in the pituitary gland. This tumor produces excessive ACTH. ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to secrete excessive cortisol.
Main Causes
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that in the majority of patients, pituitary-origin tumors are treated surgically and that early intervention can completely restore cortisol balance.
Excess cortisol affects almost all systems of the body. Since symptoms develop slowly, patients often live with the condition for a long time without noticing it.
Physical Symptoms
Metabolic Symptoms
Psychological Symptoms
Symptoms in Women
Symptoms in Men
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that changes in body shape and muscle weakness are among the most important clues in Cushing’s disease and that early diagnosis is possible when these symptoms are taken seriously.
The diagnostic process is quite detailed because cortisol imbalances may arise from different underlying causes.
Hormone Tests
Imaging Tests
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that diagnosis is based not only on hormone levels but also on the combined evaluation of clinical symptoms and MRI findings.
Treatment is planned according to the source of the disease. The goal is to stop excessive cortisol production and restore hormonal balance.
Pituitary Surgery
This is the most effective treatment method. Removal of the tumor normalizes ACTH production.
Surgery is usually performed through the nose using the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that the success rate of pituitary surgery exceeds 85% when performed using minimally invasive techniques.
Medication
Used in patients who are not suitable for surgery or when the tumor cannot be completely removed. These medications suppress cortisol production.
Radiotherapy
Applied when tumor residue remains after surgery. However, its effect appears slowly; therefore, it is often supported with temporary medication.
Adrenal Surgery
In rare cases, the adrenal glands may be removed completely. In this situation, the patient must take lifelong hormone replacement.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that the treatment process should be personalized and that a combination of surgery, medication, and radiotherapy can bring the disease under permanent control.
Pituitary surgery used in Cushing’s disease is performed through the inside of the nose. The surgeon reaches the pituitary gland with the help of an endoscope and carefully removes the tumor tissue.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains the advantages of this method:
Most patients’ cortisol levels return to normal within a few days after surgery.
Untreated Cushing’s disease may lead to serious organ damage in the long term.
Cardiovascular System
Hypertension, heart enlargement, and arrhythmias may develop.
Skeletal System
Excess cortisol increases bone breakdown and leads to osteoporosis.
Metabolic Effects
Diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol are common.
Infection Risk
Since cortisol suppresses the immune system, susceptibility to infections increases.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that the greatest long-term risk of the disease is cardiovascular problems and emphasizes that early treatment eliminates these risks.
Cortisol levels decrease rapidly after surgery. During this period, patients may experience fatigue and weakness as the body adjusts to lower cortisol levels.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that regular hormone tests after surgery are essential and that the success of treatment is evaluated through long-term follow-up.
High cortisol levels may cause depression, anxiety disorders, and mood changes.
These symptoms decrease as hormones return to normal after surgery.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that psychological support is also an important part of the recovery process.
Healthy nutrition, exercise, and stress management are very important during treatment.
Diet Recommendations
Exercise
Regular walking and light exercise protect bone health and increase muscle strength.
Stress Management
Meditation, breathing exercises, and adequate sleep help regulate cortisol levels.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that maintaining lifestyle changes after treatment reduces the risk of recurrence.
Pregnancy is rare in women with Cushing’s disease because hormonal imbalance prevents ovulation.
If hormonal balance is restored after treatment, normal pregnancy becomes possible.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı recommends completing surgical treatment and stabilizing hormone levels before planning pregnancy.
Costs vary depending on diagnostic tests, surgical method, length of hospital stay, and additional treatment needs.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı creates a personalized plan suitable for both the patient’s medical needs and budget.
After treatment, hormone levels are monitored through regular check-ups.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that participation in regular follow-up significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.
When diagnosed early, the success rate exceeds 90%.
Most patients regain hormonal balance within 3–6 months after surgery.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that treatment success depends not only on surgery but also on nutrition, stress management, and regular medical follow-up.
It is not directly preventable, but complications can be avoided with early diagnosis.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that as awareness increases, the disease can be detected at an earlier stage, preventing permanent damage.
Cushing’s disease is a serious endocrine disorder that disrupts cortisol balance in the body. However, with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and a multidisciplinary approach, it can be completely controlled.
Thanks to modern pituitary surgery techniques, patients recover in a short time and their quality of life improves.
Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, with his experience in neuroendocrine surgery, offers reliable, scientific, and personalized solutions for the treatment of Cushing’s disease.
When hormonal balance is achieved, both physical and emotional well-being are restored.
Recognizing Cushing’s disease early opens the door to a healthier life.
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