Cushing's Disease in Children: A Review
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Published on: September 15, 2017
Sapna Nayak1, Preeti Dabadghao1, Priyadarshi Dixit2
1Department of Endocrine Medicine, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Insights
Paediatric Cushing's disease, though rare, shares adult symptoms but presents unique management challenges. This review covers key considerations for treating children with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Endocrine Disorders
- Hormonal Imbalance
Background:
- Cushing's disease is uncommon in children, with manifestations mirroring adult cases.
- Current management strategies are largely adapted from adult protocols.
- Effective treatment is crucial for addressing growth, bone health, and quality of life in affected children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the specific clinical, biochemical, radiological, surgical, and adjunctive therapeutic aspects of pediatric Cushing's disease.
- To highlight the challenges in managing Cushing's disease in the pediatric population.
- To provide a comprehensive overview for clinicians managing pediatric Cushing's disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on pediatric Cushing's disease.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and diagnostic criteria in children.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes and long-term effects in pediatric patients.
Main Results:
- Paediatric Cushing's disease requires tailored management to optimize growth, body composition, bone health, and reproductive outcomes.
- Specialized clinical, biochemical, radiological, and surgical approaches are necessary.
- Adjunctive therapies play a vital role in comprehensive care.
Conclusions:
- Managing Cushing's disease in children necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.
- Addressing the unique challenges in pediatric patients is key to improving long-term health and quality of life.
- Further research into pediatric-specific treatment strategies is warranted.
Abstract:
Cushing's disease is rare in the paediatric age group. The disease manifestations are similar to that seen in adults. Most of the management protocols have, therefore, been adopted from experience in adults and the therapeutic strategies employed in the latter group. Management of paediatric Cushing's disease poses significant challenges with regard to achieving an optimal growth, a proper body composition, an adequate bone health and reproductive capability as well as a good quality of life. This article reviews the special clinical, biochemical, radiological, surgical, and adjunctive therapeutic considerations in paediatric Cushing's disease.
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