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Keywords = Cushing disease

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14 pages, 720 KB  
Article
Both Season and Equid Type Affect Endogenous Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Concentrations in Healthy Donkeys, Mules and Hinnies in the United States
by Erin L. Goodrich, Sebastián Gonzalo Llanos-Soto, Renata Ivanek, Toby Pinn-Woodcock, Elisha Frye, Amy Wells, Stephen R. Purdy, Emily Berryhill and Ned J. Place
Animals 2026, 16(2), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020290 - 16 Jan 2026
Viewed by 103
Abstract
Baseline plasma ACTH concentrations are frequently utilized as part of the diagnostic evaluation of equids when PPID is suspected. Baseline ACTH can be impacted by many factors including time of year, i.e., ACTH has generally been found to be elevated during late summer [...] Read more.
Baseline plasma ACTH concentrations are frequently utilized as part of the diagnostic evaluation of equids when PPID is suspected. Baseline ACTH can be impacted by many factors including time of year, i.e., ACTH has generally been found to be elevated during late summer through early autumn in the northern hemisphere. An understanding of ACTH concentrations in healthy equids over the course of a year is useful for the proper interpretation of concentrations in PPID-suspect animals. Previous studies assessing ACTH concentrations in healthy donkeys (Equus asinus) and hybrids (E. asinus x E. caballus) are limited, often utilizing very small numbers, equids from specific and limited geographical regions, limited timeframes or unspecified donkey types (miniature, standard, or mammoth). We aimed to characterize the seasonal variation in baseline ACTH concentrations in healthy miniature donkeys, standard donkeys and hybrids in the United States (US) and to compare those concentrations across these groups. Following outlier removal, 19 standard donkeys (from California (CA), Massachusetts (MA), New York (NY)), 14 miniature donkeys (CA and NY), and 28 hybrids (Texas (TX) and NY) were utilized for analysis. Samples were collected from each equid twice per month from June to November 2019 and once per month from December 2019 through May 2020. The mean ACTH concentration of all equids was higher from mid-August through the end of October compared to the rest of the year (being the highest in the second half of September with the mean (standard deviation) values of 109.6 (52.6), 134.6 (67.4), and 100.8 (189.6) in standard donkeys, miniature donkeys, and hybrids, respectively). Additionally, ACTH concentrations in hybrids were 23% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 4–38%) and 51% (95% CI: 36–63%) lower than in standard and miniature donkeys, respectively, from mid-August through October. During the rest of the year, hybrids similarly showed 31% (95% CI: 16–43%) and 30% (95% CI: 15–42%) lower ACTH concentrations compared with standard and miniature donkeys, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on Donkeys and Mules: Second Edition)
21 pages, 3413 KB  
Article
The Whole Transcriptome Sequencing Profile of Serum-Derived Exosomes and Potential Pathophysiology of Age-Related Hearing Loss
by Guijun Yang, Zhongqin Xie, Yu Huang, Jing Ke, Ziyi Tang, Zhiji Chen, Shaojing Kuang, Feixian Li, Huan Luo, Qin Lai, Bo Wang, Juhong Zhang and Wei Yuan
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020248 - 12 Jan 2026
Viewed by 204
Abstract
Objectives: To systematically analyze the expression profiles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in serum-derived exosomes from patients with age-related hearing loss (ARHL), and to further identify key regulatory lncRNAs involved in the pathogenesis and progression of ARHL. Methods: Peripheral blood samples were collected [...] Read more.
Objectives: To systematically analyze the expression profiles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in serum-derived exosomes from patients with age-related hearing loss (ARHL), and to further identify key regulatory lncRNAs involved in the pathogenesis and progression of ARHL. Methods: Peripheral blood samples were collected from patients with ARHL and age-matched normal-hearing controls. Serum was separated and exosomes were extracted. The exosomes were identified by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Western blot. Subsequently, total RNA was extracted from the purified exosomes for lncRNA transcriptome sequencing. Based on the sequencing results, we identified differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs and conducted multi-dimensional functional analysis, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Reactome pathway database (Reactome), and Disease Ontology (DO). Finally, four key mRNAs (THAP2, ZNF225, MED12, and RNF141) and four differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE-lncRNAs), namely MSTRG.150961.7, ENSG00000273015, MSTRG.336598.1, and ENSG00000273493, were experimentally verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) technology. Results: Exosomes were successfully isolated from serum and confirmed by particle size, morphological examination, and the expression of exosome-labeled proteins. A total of 2874 DE-lncRNAs were identified, among which 988 were downregulated and 1886 were upregulated. Similarly, 2132 DE-mRNAs were detected, among which 882 were downregulated and 1250 were upregulated. GO analysis revealed significant enrichment in biological processes such as “phospholipid binding”, “phosphatidylinositol binding”, “phosphatase binding”, “phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate binding”, “phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate binding”, “phosphatidylinositol-3,5-bisphosphate phosphatase activity”. KEGG is significantly enriched in signaling pathways including “Wnt signaling pathway”, “Hippo signaling pathway”, “Cushing syndrome”, and “Nucleocytoplasmic transport”. The functional annotations of Reactome were significantly enriched in biomolecular pathways including “tRNA processing”, “Cellular response to heat stress”, “Extra-nuclear estrogen signaling”, “Metabolism of non-coding RNA”, and “CTNNB1 T41 mutants aren’t phosphorylated”. DO is significantly enriched in diseases or pathological conditions such as “hepatitis”, “bacterial infectious disease”, “cystic fibrosis”, and “vasculitis”. Conclusions:THAP2, ZNF225, MED12, and RNF141 may serve as potential candidate biomarker for ARHL. Additionally, lncRNA MSTRG.150961.7, lncRNA MSTRG.336598.1, and lncRNA ENSG00000273493 may play significant roles in the pathogenesis of this condition. Full article
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39 pages, 1564 KB  
Systematic Review
Assessing the Value of Data-Driven Frameworks for Personalized Medicine in Pituitary Tumours: A Critical Overview
by Joan Gil, Paula de Pedro-Campos, Cristina Carrato, Pol Jardí-Yanes, Montserrat Marques-Pamies, Helena Rodríguez-Lloveras, Anna Rueda-Pujol, Jennifer Marcos-Ruiz, Elena Martinez-Saez, Clara V. Alvarez, Ignacio Bernabéu, Elias Delgado, Cristina Lamas, Antonio Picó, Susan M. Webb, Edelmiro Menéndez, Rebeca Martínez-Hernández, Miguel Sampedro, Anna Aulinas, Betina Biagetti, Mónica Marazuela, Elena Valassi, Mireia Jordà and Manel Puig-Domingoadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2026, 8(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/make8010016 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 221
Abstract
Background: Pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) are clinically and biologically heterogeneous neoplasms that remain challenging to diagnose, prognosticate, and treat. Although recent WHO classifications using transcription-factor-based markers have refined pathological categorisation, histopathology alone still fails to predict tumour behaviour or support individualised therapy. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: Pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (PitNETs) are clinically and biologically heterogeneous neoplasms that remain challenging to diagnose, prognosticate, and treat. Although recent WHO classifications using transcription-factor-based markers have refined pathological categorisation, histopathology alone still fails to predict tumour behaviour or support individualised therapy. Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate how machine learning (ML) and knowledge extraction approaches can complement pathology by integrating multi-dimensional omics datasets to generate predictive and clinically meaningful insights in PitNETs. Methods: The review followed the PRISMA 2020 statement for systematic reviews. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, arXiv, and SciSpace up to June 2025 to identify omics studies applying ML or computational data integration in PitNETs. Eligible studies included original research using genomic, transcriptomic, epigenomic, proteomic, or liquid biopsy data. Data extraction covered study design, ML methodology, data accessibility, and clinical annotation. Study quality and validation strategies were also assessed. Results: A total of 726 records were identified. After the reviewing process, 98 studies met inclusion criteria. PitNET research employed unsupervised clustering or regularised regression methods reflecting their suitability for high-dimensional omics datasets and the limited sample sizes. In contrast, deep learning approaches were rarely implemented, primarily due to the scarcity of large, clinically annotated cohorts required to train such models effectively. To support future research and model development, we compiled a comprehensive catalogue of all publicly available PitNET omics resources, facilitating reuse, methodological benchmarking, and integrative analyses. Conclusions: Although omics research in PitNETs is increasing, the lack of standardised, clinically annotated datasets remains a major obstacle to the development and deployment of robust predictive models. Coordinated efforts in data sharing and clinical harmonisation are required to unlock its full potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Thematic Reviews)
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24 pages, 491 KB  
Article
Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology (ALIVE): Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, (Euglycaemic) Diabetic Ketosis/Ketoacidosis, and Diabetic Remission—A Modified Delphi-Method-Based System to Create Consensus Definitions
by Stijn J. M. Niessen, Robert Shiel, Astrid Wehner, Miguel Campos, Sylvie Daminet, Federico Fracassi, Peter Graham, Jérémie Korchia, Patty Lathan, Rodolfo Leal, Diego Daniel Miceli, Carmel T. Mooney, Maria de los Doloros Perez Alenza, Mark E. Peterson, Johan P. Schoeman and on behalf of the ESVE/SCE membership
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13010035 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 870
Abstract
Companion animal endocrinology has benefited from international standardisation of disease terminology for diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s syndrome, and hypoadrenocorticism through Project Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology (ALIVE). A group of 14 experts and one chair convened for the third cycle of Project ALIVE, focusing [...] Read more.
Companion animal endocrinology has benefited from international standardisation of disease terminology for diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s syndrome, and hypoadrenocorticism through Project Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology (ALIVE). A group of 14 experts and one chair convened for the third cycle of Project ALIVE, focusing on thyroid disease terminology. The cycle employed the modified Delphi approach from previous cycles, augmented by procedural refinements—such as inclusion of an off-site chair and stricter adherence to timelines —to improve efficiency and flexibility. Novel in this round was the integration of feedback from a previous cycle, which resulted in updated definitions for diabetes mellitus originally developed in ALIVE Cycle 1. Outcomes: A 100% consensus was achieved among panellists and 91.4–100% among 105 members of international veterinary endocrinology societies (32% of total memberships) over 78 thyroid-related terminology items and five revised definitions pertaining to diabetes mellitus. These standardised definitions are expected to facilitate clearer communication and education, enhance diagnostic consistency, support research comparability, and improve clinical care in feline and canine endocrine diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Internal Medicine)
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24 pages, 1810 KB  
Review
Protein Kinase A Signaling in Cortisol Production and Adrenal Cushing’s Syndrome
by Abhishek Kumar, Abhimanyu Sharma and Mitchell H. Omar
Cells 2026, 15(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15010063 - 29 Dec 2025
Viewed by 544
Abstract
The adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate–protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signaling pathway is highly utilized in human physiology. It is a crucial component of development and is vital to cellular function in nearly all tissues. Indeed, genetic mutations to cAMP-PKA machinery are found in many pathologies, [...] Read more.
The adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate–protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signaling pathway is highly utilized in human physiology. It is a crucial component of development and is vital to cellular function in nearly all tissues. Indeed, genetic mutations to cAMP-PKA machinery are found in many pathologies, including multiple cancers, cardiac myxoma, neurodevelopmental disorders, and hypercortisolism. Cyclic AMP and PKA were first identified as vital components in cortisol synthesis over 50 years ago, yet the cellular mechanisms connecting PKA to cortisol production are still not well understood. This article will review evidence for PKA’s roles in adrenal gland zona fasciculata steroidogenesis and consider recent studies of the stress hormone disease adrenal Cushing’s syndrome to synthesize a current model for cAMP-PKA actions in cortisol production. Full article
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13 pages, 1331 KB  
Article
Urinary Corticoid-to-Creatinine Ratio 8 Hours After Low-Dose Oral Dexamethasone for the Diagnosis of Cushing’s Syndrome in Dogs
by Elber Alberto Soler Arias and Hans S. Kooistra
Animals 2026, 16(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16010084 - 28 Dec 2025
Viewed by 5467
Abstract
The intravenous low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (IV-LDDST) is considered the most accurate method for diagnosing Cushing’s syndrome (CS) in dogs, but its intravenous administration and repeated hospital sampling are stressful and time-consuming for both dogs and owners. This study evaluated an oral LDDST [...] Read more.
The intravenous low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (IV-LDDST) is considered the most accurate method for diagnosing Cushing’s syndrome (CS) in dogs, but its intravenous administration and repeated hospital sampling are stressful and time-consuming for both dogs and owners. This study evaluated an oral LDDST (O-LDDST) as a minimally invasive alternative. The approach is based on the urinary corticoid-to-creatinine ratio (uCC) measured in urine samples collected at home at baseline (B-uCC) and 8 h after administering a low oral dose of dexamethasone (0.01 mg/kg; 8h-uCC). A total of 168 client-owned dogs were prospectively recruited: 42 healthy dogs (HD), 40 dogs with disease mimicking CS (DMCS), and 86 dogs with confirmed CS. An ROC curve analysis showed that dogs with CS had significantly higher B-uCC and 8h-uCC and a lower suppression percentage (%S) compared with HD and DMCS (all p < 0.0001). Optimal cut-offs were B-uCC > 14.2 × 10−6, 8h-uCC > 6.7 × 10−6, and %S < 48.6%, yielding sensitivity/specificity of 82.9%/83.3%, 95.3%/92.6%, and 86.0%/85.3%, respectively. O-LDDST was preferred by 85.9% of owners, although it did not distinguish pituitary- from adrenal-dependent CS. The O-LDDST proved to be a reliable, accurate, and minimally invasive diagnostic option for CS in dogs, with 8h-uCC providing the highest accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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16 pages, 1107 KB  
Article
Spectrum of Osteoporosis Etiologies with Associated Vertebral Compression Fractures in Children: Analysis of 11 Cases
by Sara Aszkiełowicz, Anna Łupińska, Izabela Michałus, Arkadiusz Zygmunt and Renata Stawerska
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(1), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15010123 - 24 Dec 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pediatric osteoporosis is a multifactorial condition characterized by impaired bone mineralization and increased fracture risk, particularly vertebral compression fractures. This study aims to evaluate the diverse etiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options for pediatric osteoporosis in a cohort of affected children. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pediatric osteoporosis is a multifactorial condition characterized by impaired bone mineralization and increased fracture risk, particularly vertebral compression fractures. This study aims to evaluate the diverse etiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options for pediatric osteoporosis in a cohort of affected children. Methods: We reviewed eleven pediatric patients (aged 5–16 years) diagnosed with vertebral fractures and osteoporosis, who were hospitalized between 2020 and 2024 at the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases at PMMH-RI in Lodz. Clinical evaluation included medical history, physical examination, biochemical markers of bone metabolism, and imaging techniques such as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to determine underlying causes of bone fragility. Results: The cohort presented a broad etiological spectrum, including seven patients with genetic disorders (e.g., mutations in COL1A1, LRP5, SGMS2, and ALPL genes) and secondary osteoporosis due to chronic diseases requiring prolonged glucocorticoid therapy (two patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), one patient with Crohn’s disease) or endocrinological disorders (one patient with Cushing disease). Vertebral fractures were confirmed in all patients, with back pain as the predominant symptom. Low bone mass (BMD Z-score < −2.0) was observed in eight individuals; in others, clinical signs of skeletal fragility were present despite Z-scores above this threshold. Mild biochemical abnormalities included hypercalciuria (3/11 cases) and vitamin D deficiency (6/11 cases). Height adjustment improved BMD interpretation in short-stature patients. Most children received bisphosphonate therapy, supplemented with calcium and vitamin D. In two patients, bisphosphonates were not used due to lack of parental consent or underlying conditions in which such treatment is not recommended. Conclusions: Pediatric osteoporosis requires a multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic approach, integrating clinical, biochemical, and genetic factors. It is a heterogeneous and often underrecognized condition, with vertebral fractures frequently serving as its earliest sign—even in the absence of overt symptoms or low bone mass. This underscores the need for clinical vigilance, as significant skeletal fragility may occur despite normal BMD values. Importantly, pediatric osteoporosis may also impact the attainment of peak bone mass and ultimately affect final adult height. Early diagnosis through thorough assessment, including height-adjusted DXA, and a multidisciplinary approach are essential to ensure timely management and prevent long-term complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Paediatric Endocrinology)
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10 pages, 276 KB  
Article
Clinicopathologic Characteristics, Treatment Outcomes, and Survival in Thymic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (t-NEN): A 25-Year Single-Center Experience
by Aleksandra Piórek, Adam Płużański, Dariusz M. Kowalski and Maciej Krzakowski
Cancers 2025, 17(24), 3932; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17243932 - 9 Dec 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Thymic neuroendocrine neoplasms (t-NENs) are rare, biologically aggressive malignancies of the anterior mediastinum. Due to their low incidence, clinical evidence remains limited, and treatment recommendations are primarily based on expert opinion and extrapolation from other neuroendocrine tumors. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Thymic neuroendocrine neoplasms (t-NENs) are rare, biologically aggressive malignancies of the anterior mediastinum. Due to their low incidence, clinical evidence remains limited, and treatment recommendations are primarily based on expert opinion and extrapolation from other neuroendocrine tumors. This study aimed to analyze the clinicopathological features, treatment patterns, and survival outcomes of patients with t-NENs treated at a single comprehensive cancer center over 25 years. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on 19 adult patients diagnosed with t-NENs between 2000 and 2024. Data on demographics, histology, treatment intent, modalities used, and outcomes were collected. Survival analyses—of overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and progression-free survival (PFS)—were conducted using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results: The median age was 52 years; 63% of patients were male. Atypical carcinoid was the most common histologic subtype (52.6%), followed by large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (31.6%). Paraneoplastic syndromes, including Cushing’s syndrome, were observed in 26.3% of cases. Radical surgery was performed for 8 patients, but R0 resection was achieved in only 25% of them. Postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy were used for 36.8% and 15.8% of patients, respectively. Disease recurrence occurred in 44.4% of curatively treated patients. The median OS for the entire cohort was 127 months; patients treated with curative intent had a significantly longer OS (170 months) compared to those after palliative treatment (33 months). Median PFS in the palliative group was 11 months. Conclusions: t-NENs are aggressive tumors with high risk of recurrence and limited systemic treatment efficacy. Complete surgical resection remains the cornerstone of curative therapy. However, the overall prognosis remains poor, emphasizing the need for novel therapeutic strategies and prospective multicenter studies. Full article
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14 pages, 316 KB  
Article
An Evaluation of the Hemoglobin–Albumin–Lymphocyte–Platelet (HALP) Score in Cushing’s Syndrome and Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion
by Sevgül Fakı, Abbas Ali Tam, Belma Özlem Tural Balsak, Gülsüm Karaahmetli, Feride Pınar Altay, Didem Özdemir, Oya Topaloğlu, Reyhan Ersoy and Bekir Çakır
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(22), 8207; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14228207 - 19 Nov 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cushing’s syndrome (CS) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by chronic glucocorticoid excess. With the increasing recognition of mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS), clinical and biochemical differentiation between overt and mild forms has become more challenging. This study evaluated the clinical significance [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cushing’s syndrome (CS) is a rare endocrine disorder caused by chronic glucocorticoid excess. With the increasing recognition of mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS), clinical and biochemical differentiation between overt and mild forms has become more challenging. This study evaluated the clinical significance of the hemoglobin–albumin–lymphocyte–platelet (HALP) score in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD), adrenal Cushing’s syndrome (ACS), MACS, and nonfunctioning adrenal adenoma (NFA), focusing on its potential role in the preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up of hypercortisolism. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 361 patients evaluated for cortisol excess between February 2019 and June 2025. Patients were categorized into four groups: CD, ACS, MACS, and NFA. Demographic, clinical, and hormonal parameters, as well as surgical outcomes, were recorded, and the HALP score was compared between the four groups. The diagnostic performance of the HALP score in differentiating overt Cushing’s syndrome (CD + ACS) from MACS/NFA was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Postoperative changes in the HALP score were analyzed in surgically treated patients. Results: HALP scores were significantly lower in overt CS than in MACS and NFA. Using a threshold value of 40, the HALP score demonstrated 51.9% sensitivity and 90.4% specificity in differentiating CD/ACS from MACS/NFA. Among 68 operated patients, postoperative HALP data were available for 49 patients, for whom HALP scores significantly increased in both CD and ACS groups (p = 0.001 for each). Conclusions: The HALP score serves as a simple, cost-effective biomarker that reflects the combined hematologic and metabolic impact of cortisol excess. Significant postoperative improvement in the HALP score suggests its potential utility as a complementary tool in the preoperative assessment of hypercortisolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endocrine Surgery: Current Developments and Trends)
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7 pages, 539 KB  
Case Report
A Young Woman with Paraneoplastic Cushing’s Syndrome Due to a Pulmonary Carcinoid
by Marine Sluys, Pauline Delannoy, Laurence Lousberg, Marie Strivay, Adrian F. Daly and Patrick Pétrossians
Reports 2025, 8(4), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/reports8040226 - 3 Nov 2025
Viewed by 616
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Ectopic ACTH secretion is a rare, potentially life-threatening cause of Cushing’s syndrome that can be overlooked when small neuroendocrine tumors evade standard imaging. Case Presentation: A 34-year-old woman presented with rapidly progressing clinical signs/symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome and demonstrated [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Ectopic ACTH secretion is a rare, potentially life-threatening cause of Cushing’s syndrome that can be overlooked when small neuroendocrine tumors evade standard imaging. Case Presentation: A 34-year-old woman presented with rapidly progressing clinical signs/symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome and demonstrated marked hypercortisolism (cortisol 2428 nmol/L; ACTH 163 ng/mL; urinary free cortisol 815 μg/24 h; K+ 2.4 mmol/L). Small hypermetabolic nodules were noted in her right lung on 18F-FDG PET/CT but were initially deemed to be infectious; DOTANOC PET-CT and inferior petrosal sinus sampling were non-diagnostic. After medically induced inhibition of cortisol, repeat PET/CT showed a persistent 13 mm lung nodule. Biopsy confirmed a well-differentiated pulmonary carcinoid (Ki-67 3%), and lobectomy achieved biochemical remission. Conclusions: Diagnostic delay stemmed from human factors despite early suggestive imaging. Ectopic ACTH secretion should remain high on the differential diagnosis in rapidly evolving, severe ACTH-dependent Cushing’s disease; early, decisive diagnosis and coordinated care overseen by endocrinologists—preferably in expert centers—can shorten exposure to deleteriously high cortisol levels and improve outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology/Metabolism)
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13 pages, 1353 KB  
Article
Real-World Data on the Efficacy and Safety of Osilodrostat in Patients with Cushing’s Disease in Spain
by Marta Araujo-Castro, Rogelio García-Centeno, Laura González, Felicia A. Hanzu, Aida Orois, Rosa Camara, María Dolores Ollero García, Ana Irigaray Echarri, Paola Gracia Gimeno, Eider Pascual-Corrales, Betina Biagetti, Andrés Cardona, Inmaculada González Molero, Andreu Simo-Servat, Fernando Guerrero Pérez, Rocío Villar-Taibo, Ignacio Bernabéu, Carmen Fajardo-Montañana, Cristina Novo-Rodríguez, Carmen Tenorio Jimenéz, María Calatayud, María Dolores Moure Rodríguez, Fernando Cordido, Ana Castro, Lucía Manzano Valero, Miguel Paja Fano, Jessica Goi, Anna Aulinas, Pablo Abellán, Pedro Iglesias and Alfonso Soto-Morenoadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(21), 7575; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14217575 - 25 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1628
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD). Methods: A retrospective, multicenter, real-world study of patients with CD. The main efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients who were complete responders (urinary free cortisol [UFC] [...] Read more.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat in patients with Cushing’s disease (CD). Methods: A retrospective, multicenter, real-world study of patients with CD. The main efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients who were complete responders (urinary free cortisol [UFC] < the upper limit of normal and/or with adrenal insufficiency development). Results: Thirty-seven CD patients were enrolled. There were 33 patients who initially received osilodrostat in monotherapy and 4 in combination. However, 3 patients of the monotherapy group were switched to combination therapy. The median duration of osilodrostat treatment was 5 months (range 1–93). All the patients were classified as responders: 33 (89.2%) had complete response and 4 partial response. A positive correlation was detected between the percentage of UFC decrease and the maximum (r = 0.481, p = 0.006) and the maintenance doses (r = 0.440, p = 0.011). The initial doses of osilodrostat were a predictor of complete response (vs. partial) (Odds ratio [OR] 2.82, p = 0.030). The median time to UFC normalization in the group of complete responders was 4 weeks (range 1–20) and UFC normalized before or at month 1 in 67% (n = 20/30) of the patients. Osilodrostat led to a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in parallel with a reduction of antihypertensive medications. Conclusions: Osilodrostat leads to a complete UFC normalization in up to 90% of the patients with CD, in parallel with an improvement in the cardiometabolic profile. A proper titration of osilodrostat is important to achieve a complete response since a positive correlation between the doses and the UFC reduction was observed. Full article
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16 pages, 2238 KB  
Article
Effectiveness of Medical Treatment on Survivability in Canine Cushing’s Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Sophia Shanlly, Jordan Slessor, Wenting Yan, Jessica J. D. Thorlakson, Heather L. Bruce and Richard R. E. Uwiera
Animals 2025, 15(20), 2954; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15202954 - 12 Oct 2025
Viewed by 2406
Abstract
Cushing’s syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders in dogs and is typically managed with long-term medical treatment. Several pharmacological agents are available: trilostane, mitotane, ketoconazole, cabergoline, selegiline, and aminoglutethimide, but their comparative effects on survival remain unclear. This systematic review [...] Read more.
Cushing’s syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders in dogs and is typically managed with long-term medical treatment. Several pharmacological agents are available: trilostane, mitotane, ketoconazole, cabergoline, selegiline, and aminoglutethimide, but their comparative effects on survival remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the impact of these agents on survival outcomes in dogs with naturally occurring diseases. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, and the Cochrane Library was conducted between 1 September 2024 to 3 January 2025. Eligible studies included dogs diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome that reported survival outcomes for at least one of the specified treatments. Five studies (n = 295 dogs) met the inclusion criteria, with trilostane and mitotane providing sufficient data for meta-analysis. Pooled mean difference in survival time across four studies was 85.1 days (95% CI: −255.9 to 85.7, p = 0.21) with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 89%), indicating no statistically significant difference between the drugs. In contrast, pooled survival rates at fixed intervals favored trilostane, with an 11% higher survival at 36 months (p = 0.005) and no heterogeneity observed (I2 = 0%). These findings suggest trilostane may offer long-term survival benefits over mitotane. Full article
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20 pages, 994 KB  
Perspective
Endocrinology and the Lung: Exploring the Bidirectional Axis and Future Directions
by Pedro Iglesias
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(19), 6985; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14196985 - 2 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2239
Abstract
The lung is increasingly recognized as an organ with dual endocrine and respiratory roles, participating in a complex bidirectional crosstalk with systemic hormones and local/paracrine activity. Endocrine and paracrine pathways regulate lung development, ventilation, immunity, and repair, while pulmonary cells express hormone receptors [...] Read more.
The lung is increasingly recognized as an organ with dual endocrine and respiratory roles, participating in a complex bidirectional crosstalk with systemic hormones and local/paracrine activity. Endocrine and paracrine pathways regulate lung development, ventilation, immunity, and repair, while pulmonary cells express hormone receptors and secrete mediators with both local and systemic effects, defining the concept of the “endocrine lung”. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the endocrine–pulmonary axis. Thyroid hormones, glucocorticoids, sex steroids, and metabolic hormones (e.g., insulin, leptin, adiponectin) critically influence alveologenesis, surfactant production, ventilatory drive, airway mechanics, and immune responses. Conversely, the lung produces mediators such as serotonin, calcitonin gene-related peptide, endothelin-1, leptin, and keratinocyte growth factor, which regulate vascular tone, alveolar homeostasis, and immune modulation. We also describe the respiratory manifestations of major endocrine diseases, including obstructive sleep apnea and lung volume alterations in acromegaly, immunosuppression and myopathy in Cushing’s syndrome, hypoventilation in hypothyroidism, restrictive “diabetic lung”, and obesity-related phenotypes. In parallel, chronic pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, and sleep apnea profoundly affect endocrine axes, promoting insulin resistance, hypogonadism, GH/IGF-1 suppression, and bone metabolism alterations. Pulmonary neuroendocrine tumors further highlight the interface, frequently presenting with paraneoplastic endocrine syndromes. Finally, therapeutic interactions are discussed, including the risks of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis suppression with inhaled corticosteroids, immunotherapy-induced endocrinopathies, and inhaled insulin. Future perspectives emphasize mapping pulmonary hormone networks, endocrine phenotyping of chronic respiratory diseases, and developing hormone-based interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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13 pages, 1329 KB  
Article
Comparison of Localization Methods in Cushing Disease—Could [11C]C-Methionine PET/CT Replace MRI or BIPSS?
by Adam Daniel Durma, Marek Saracyn, Maciej Kołodziej, Grzegorz Zieliński, Piotr Zięcina, Jerzy Narloch and Grzegorz Kamiński
Cancers 2025, 17(19), 3147; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17193147 - 27 Sep 2025
Viewed by 838
Abstract
Introduction: Cushing syndrome (CS) is a medical condition resulting from prolonged hypercortisolemia. The most common reason for endogenous CS is ACTH overproduction by pituitary adenoma, and then it is called Cushing disease (CD). The gold standard of CD diagnostic remains bilateral inferior [...] Read more.
Introduction: Cushing syndrome (CS) is a medical condition resulting from prolonged hypercortisolemia. The most common reason for endogenous CS is ACTH overproduction by pituitary adenoma, and then it is called Cushing disease (CD). The gold standard of CD diagnostic remains bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS); nevertheless, non-invasive diagnostic methods are being sought to provide a higher safety profile. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether [11C]C-MET PET/CT can serve as a non-invasive alternative to BIPSS and MRI in CD diagnosis. Methods: This prospective study included 21 patients with CD who underwent BIPSS, MRI of the pituitary, and [11C]C-MET PET/CT. Results: Sensitivity of BIPSS, MRI and [11C]C-MET PET/CT was 100%, 59% and 24%, respectively, while specificity was 100%, 75%, and 13%. Next, we retrospectively compared PET/CT results for patients with corticotrope pituitary adenomas (n = 18) with those for individuals with no pituitary pathology (n = 18), and the results showed significantly higher SUVmax in the study group (3.74 ± 0.90 vs. 1.87 ± 1.17; p < 0.001). In ROC curve analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.889 (p <0.001; 95% CI 0.784–0.994). For SUVmax 2.60, the calculated sensitivity and specificity were 89% and 78% respectively, and for SUVmax 3.56, sensitivity and specificity were 67% and 89%, respectively. Conclusions: [11C]C-MET PET/CT seems not to be a reliable diagnostic option in the diagnosis of pituitary corticotropic adenomas. BIPSS proved still to be the best diagnostic option for CD. Nevertheless, a higher than normal pituitary accumulation of the radiotracer may suggest the presence of increased amino acid metabolism, thus, the presence of adenoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Targeted Radiotracers for Molecular Imaging and Therapy in Cancer)
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24 pages, 603 KB  
Review
Dexamethasone Suppression Testing in Patients with Adrenal Incidentalomas with/Without Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion: Spectrum of Cortisol Cutoffs and Additional Assays (An Updated Analysis)
by Alexandra-Ioana Trandafir and Mara Carsote
Biomedicines 2025, 13(9), 2169; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13092169 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 3605
Abstract
Background/Objective: The overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) represents the conventional/standard tool for endogenous hypercortisolemia screening, typically in relationship with adrenal and pituitary masses. Nevertheless, an associated spectrum of challenges and pitfalls is found in daily practice. This analysis aimed to evaluate: [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: The overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) represents the conventional/standard tool for endogenous hypercortisolemia screening, typically in relationship with adrenal and pituitary masses. Nevertheless, an associated spectrum of challenges and pitfalls is found in daily practice. This analysis aimed to evaluate: (I.) the diagnosis relevance of 1-mg DST in patients with adrenal incidentalomas (AIs) with/without mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) exploring different cutoffs of the second-day plasma cortisol after dexamethasone administration (cs-DST) with respect to cardio-metabolic outcomes; (II.) the potential utility of adding other biomarkers to DST [plasma morning adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), 24-h urinary free cortisol (UFC), late-night salivary cortisol (LNSC), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)]; and (III.) DST variability in time. Methods: This narrative analysis was based on searching full-text, English articles in PubMed (between January 2023 and April 2025) via using different term combinations: “dexamethasone suppression test” (n = 239), “diagnosis test for autonomous cortisol secretion” (n = 22), “diagnosis test for mild autonomous cortisol secretion” (n = 13) and “diagnosis test for Cushing Syndrome” (n = 61). We manually checked the title and abstract and finally included only the studies that provided hormonal testing results in adults with non-functional adenomas (NFAs) ± MACS. We excluded: reviews, meta-analyses, editorials, conference abstracts, case reports, and case series; non-human research; studies that did not provide clear criteria for distinguishing between Cushing syndrome and MACS; primary aldosteronism. Results: The sample-focused analysis (n = 13 studies) involved various designs: cross-sectional (n = 4), prospective (n = 1), retrospective (n = 7), and cohort (n = 1); a total of 4203 patients (female-to-male ratio = 1.45), mean age of 59.92 years. I. Cs-DST cutoffs varied among the studies (n = 6), specifically, 0.87, 0.9, 1.2, and 1.4 µg/dL in relationship with the cardio-metabolic outcomes. After adjusting for age (n = 1), only the prevalence of cardiovascular disease remained significantly higher in >0.9 µg/dL vs. ≤0.9 group (OR = 2.23). Multivariate analysis (n = 1) found cs-DST between 1.2 and 1.79 µg/dL was independently associated with hypertension (OR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.08–2.23, p = 0.018), diabetes (OR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.01–2.57, p = 0.045), and their combination (OR = 1.96, 95%CI:1.12–3.41, p = 0.018) after adjusting for age, gender, obesity, and dyslipidemia. A higher cs-DST was associated with a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), independently of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Post-adrenalectomy eGFR improvement was more pronounced in younger individuals, those with lower eGFR before surgery, and with a longer post-operative follow-up. Cs-DST (n = 1) was strongly associated with AIs size and weakly associated with age, body mass index and eGFR. Cortisol level increased by 9% (95% CI: 6–11%) for each 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 decrease in eGFR. A lower cs-DST was associated with a faster post-adrenalectomy function recovery; the co-diagnosis of diabetes reduced the likelihood of this recovery (OR = 24.55, p = 0.036). II. Additional biomarkers assays (n = 5) showed effectiveness only for lower DHEAS to pinpoint MACS amid AIs (n = 2, cutoffs of <49.31 µg/dL, respectively, <75 µg/dL), and lower ACTH (n = 1, <12.6 pmol/L). III. Longitudinal analysis of DST’s results (n = 3): 22% of NFAS switch to MACS after a median of 35.7 months (n = 1), respectively, 29% (n = 1) after 48.6 ± 12.5 months, 11.8% (n = 1) after 40.4 ± 51.17 months. A multifactorial model of prediction showed the lowest risk of switch (2.4%) in individuals < 50 years with unilateral tumor and cs-DST < 0.45 µg/dL. In the subgroup of subjects without cardio-metabolic comorbidities at presentation, 25.6% developed ≥1 comorbidities during surveillance. Conclusions: The importance of exploring the domain of AIs/NFAs/MACS relates to an increasing detection in aging population, hence, the importance of their optimum hormonal characterization and identifying/forestalling cardio-metabolic consequences. The spectrum of additional biomarkers in MACS (other than DST) remains heterogeneous and still controversial, noting the importance of their cost-effectiveness, and availability in daily practice. Cs-DST serves as an independent predictor of cardio-metabolic outcomes, kidney dysfunction, while adrenalectomy may correct them in both MACS and NFAs, especially in younger population. Moreover, it serves as a predictor of switching the NFA into MACS category during surveillance. Changing the hormonal behavior over time implies awareness, since it increases the overall disease burden. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurobiology and Clinical Neuroscience)
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