Making The Diagnosis

Talk to your doctor if you think you may have Cushing’s Syndrome. Although the diagnosis is difficult to make and may take some time to establish, it is critical to identify the disorder so that it may be treated properly. Although general physicians can make an initial diagnosis, an endocrinologist is usually needed to establish the correct diagnosis and cause of Cushing’s Syndrome and to provide proper treatment. An endocrinologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hormonal disorders.

Initial tests that may be used to establish the diagnosis of Cushing’s Syndrome:

• Dexamethasone Suppression Testing
• Urine collections for cortisol

Tests that may be used to confirm the diagnosis and help identify the cause of Cushing’s Syndrome:

• Dexamethasone Suppression Testing
• ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone)
• Salivary cortisol
• CRH tests
• Inferior Petrosal Sinus Sampling (IPSS)
• MRI imaging/CT imaging