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Cushing's disease preceding sarcoidosis
K Takenaka1, T Yanase, R Takayanagi
1Third Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka.
Internal Medicine (Tokyo, Japan)
|June 1, 1995
Summary
This rare case highlights an inverse relationship between Cushing's disease activity and sarcoidosis. The patient's cortisol levels decreased as sarcoidosis symptoms appeared, offering insights into steroid interactions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pulmonology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Presents a unique case of a 32-year-old woman diagnosed with both Cushing's disease and sarcoidosis.
- Details the patient's history of transsphenoidal surgery and pituitary radiation for Cushing's disease, leading to normalized cortisol levels.
Observation:
- The patient developed sarcoidosis in 1991, exhibiting bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy, erythema nodosum, subcutaneous nodules, and granulomatous uveitis.
- Histological examination of skin lesions confirmed the sarcoidosis diagnosis.
- An inverse correlation was observed between sarcoidosis activity and serum cortisol levels in the patient's clinical course.
Findings:
- The co-existence of Cushing's disease and sarcoidosis is exceptionally rare.
- Demonstrates an inverse relationship between the activity of sarcoidosis and cortisol levels in a patient with Cushing's disease.
Implications:
- This case provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between sarcoidosis and steroid metabolism.
- Highlights the potential impact of steroid therapy on sarcoidosis management, given its established therapeutic role.