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Told I might have Cushings. Got questions.

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tree0777
tree0777

Based on a blood test showing low ACTH and some Cushings-like symptoms, endocrinologist told me that Cushings could not be ruled out. What does this mean?  What else could it be?  What's the next step?  If it is Cushings, does low ACTH mean it's an adrenal tumor?  Could it be caused by recent cortisone shots for injuries? I've had about 9 injections in the last 7 years, including four in the last two years.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • bap84000
    bap84000 tree0777

    Posted

    Absolutely. If the ACTH is low, then probably rules out an Pituitary Adenoma, meaning that the ACTH is responding to a high corisol level. If you were taking injections, it could cause this higher cortisol level or could be a Adrenal tumor. 

    Have you stopped the injections to rule out? 

    • tree0777
      tree0777 bap84000

      Posted

      Thanks. Yes, Iast injection was in March.  These aren't regular injections.  As I said, it's been about 8 over a 9-year period and three in the last 12 months.  Is this enough to cause Cushing's?  All of these were in thumb.
    • bap84000
      bap84000 tree0777

      Posted

      I don't believe so, but if you took the last injection shortly before you took the test, then that could be a problem with the results. Personally, I like a 24 hour UFC. What was the exact ACTH  and Serum Cortisol numbers you had, early morning fasted? 

      There are no other steroidal medications, other than those injections? 

    • tree0777
      tree0777 bap84000

      Posted

      ACTH was early morning, but not fasting.  Serum cortisol has not yet been done.  

      No other steroidal medications.  There were actually only two in the last twelve months:  one is November, 2015 and one in March 2016.   Cushings-like symptoms have been going on since January 2010.  Test was in April 2016.

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