From the Research
Cushing's Syndrome and Ataxia
- Cushing's syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder caused by chronic exposure to excessive levels of cortisol 1, 2, 3.
- The syndrome is associated with various systemic complications, including metabolic syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, neuropsychiatric disorders, and immune disorders 3, 4.
- Neuropsychiatric disorders, such as impairment of cognitive function, depression, or mania, are common in patients with Cushing's syndrome 4.
- One study found that patients with active Cushing's syndrome demonstrated brain abnormalities, including smaller hippocampal volumes, enlarged ventricles, and cerebral atrophy, as well as alterations in neurochemical concentrations and functional activity 5.
- These brain abnormalities were associated with clinical characteristics, such as cortisol levels and duration of exposure to hypercortisolism, and behavioral outcomes, including cognitive and emotional functioning, mood, and quality of life 5.
- While ataxia is not explicitly mentioned as a complication of Cushing's syndrome in the provided studies, the syndrome's effects on the brain and nervous system could potentially contribute to balance and coordination problems 5.
- However, there is no direct evidence in the provided studies to confirm that Cushing's syndrome causes ataxia 1, 5, 2, 3, 4.