Nelson's syndrome
Nelson's Syndrome
Nelson's syndrome (/ˈnɛlsənz ˈsɪndroʊm/) is a rare disorder that occurs in some patients with Cushing's disease who have had their adrenal glands removed. The etymology of the term is derived from the name of Don H. Nelson, the doctor who first described the condition in 1958.
Definition
Nelson's syndrome is characterized by the rapid enlargement of a pituitary gland tumor, known as an adenoma, following the removal of the adrenal glands (a procedure known as bilateral adrenalectomy). This condition is often associated with an increase in skin pigmentation.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Nelson's syndrome can vary, but may include:
- Darkening of the skin
- Headaches
- Vision problems
- Fatigue
- Rapid growth of existing pituitary tumor
Causes
Nelson's syndrome typically occurs in patients who have undergone bilateral adrenalectomy to treat Cushing's disease. The removal of the adrenal glands causes a drop in cortisol levels, which can lead to an increase in the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by the pituitary gland. This, in turn, can cause the pituitary gland to enlarge.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Nelson's syndrome is typically made based on the patient's medical history, symptoms, and various diagnostic tests, including:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary gland
- Blood tests to measure ACTH levels
Treatment
Treatment for Nelson's syndrome typically involves surgery to remove the pituitary tumor. In some cases, radiation therapy or medication may also be used.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nelson's syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Nelson's syndrome
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