Cushing's Disease in Children

When a normally healthy child suddenly begins to gain weight without a change in diet, yet does not seem to gain much height, Cushing's disease may be the culprit. This rare hormonal condition can cause permanent height loss if left untreated, so parents who suspect their children have the condition should see a pediatric physician immediately.

Incidence and Causes

• Cushing's disease is a condition caused by an overexposure to the hormone cortisol, and only about 10 percent of all cases occur in children. The condition in young children is typically caused by adrenal tumors, and in older children and teens it is caused by pituitary tumors.

Risk Factors

• Obesity, hypertension and juvenile diabetes that is not controlled well are risk factors for developing Cushing's as a child.

Symptoms

• Children with Cushing's tend to struggle with obesity. Their height growth rates tend to be slower than healthy children's, and they may suffer from fatigue and weakened bones.

Treatment

• Children who struggle with Cushing's can be treated through hormone therapy, surgery and radiation, depending on the exact cause of the excess cortisol in the body. Surgical removal of the tumors is the most common treatment for children with the condition.

Prognosis

• Most children who are treated for Cushing's disease have a decrease in weight and an increase in height a year after treatment, but final adult height appears to be permanently affected by the condition.