Lupus & Cushing's Disease

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

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 Cushing’s disease, which has the same symptoms as endogenous Cushing's disease.

Endogenous Cushing's

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

Symptoms

• Cushing’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.