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Updated: Apr 20, 2026
06:39
Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants
Published on: June 13, 2021
3.9K
Cushing's syndrome in pregnancy
Rossella Nassi1, Cristina Ladu, Chiara Vezzosi
1Endocrinology Unit, San Donato Hospital , Arezzo , Italy and.
Summary
Cushing's syndrome in pregnancy is rare and challenging to diagnose due to overlapping symptoms. Early diagnosis and robotic surgery for this condition are crucial for maternal and fetal health.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Cushing's syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by excessive cortisol production.
- Pregnancy exacerbates diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical features with hypercortisolism.
- Untreated Cushing's syndrome poses significant risks to both maternal and fetal well-being.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old pregnant patient presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of hypercortisolism at 19 weeks gestation.
- Diagnostic workup confirmed ACTH-independent Cushing's syndrome.
- The patient underwent successful robotic laparoscopic adrenalectomy at 21 weeks gestation.
Findings:
- Robotic laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a feasible and safe surgical option for treating Cushing's syndrome during pregnancy.
- Timely surgical intervention can mitigate risks associated with hypercortisolism in pregnant individuals.
- This case highlights the importance of vigilant diagnosis and management of endocrine disorders in pregnancy.
Implications:
- Demonstrates the successful application of minimally invasive robotic surgery in managing complex endocrine conditions during gestation.
- Provides evidence for the safety and efficacy of adrenalectomy in pregnant patients with Cushing's syndrome.
- Emphasizes the need for increased awareness and specialized care for pregnant women with suspected hypercortisolism.
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