Subclinical Cushing's syndrome in adrenal incidentalomas

Abstract

Up to 20% of patients with adrenal incidentalomas have abnormal cortisol production, and can be classified as having subclinical Cushing's syndrome. Although these tumors do not secrete enough cortisol to lead to the development of overt Cushing's syndrome, they are likely playing a contributory role in the development of hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis, and obesity. Studies suggest that many of these problems can be reversed with surgical treatment. Additionally, if this diagnosis is not sought out before pursuing an adrenalectomy for an incidentaloma, the patient can develop profound postoperative adrenal insufficiency.