Korean J Med.  2017 Apr;92(2):190-194. 10.3904/kjm.2017.92.2.190.

Cushing Syndrome Caused by ACTH-independent Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia

• Choi YK
• Hwang IR
• Seo JB
• Jeong JY
• Kim JG

• KMID: 2382661
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3904/kjm.2017.92.2.190

Abstract

Adenocorticotropic hormone-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (AIMAH) is a rare cause of Cushing's syndrome. It is characterized by multinodular enlargement of the adrenal glands and hypercortisolism. Although bilateral adrenalectomy is the standard therapy, unilateral adrenalectomy is an effective alternative. Here we present a case of a 71-year-old female referred to the Endocrinology Department for further evaluation of bilateral adrenal macronodular hyperplasia. Based on dynamic hormone tests and imaging studies, she was diagnosed with AIMAH. Due to persistent hypercortisolism, she underwent completion contralateral surgery after unilateral adrenalectomy. This case demonstrates that unilateral adrenalectomy should be considered in a patient presenting with obvious symptoms of hypercotisolism and relatively asymmetric adrenal enlargement.

Keyword

Acth-independent macronodular adrenal hyperplasia; Cushing syndrome; Adrenalectomy

MeSH Terms

Adrenal Glands
Adrenalectomy
Aged
Cushing Syndrome*
Endocrinology
Female
Humans
Hyperplasia*