Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
ACTH-secreting tumors
Introduction
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
The tumor stains basophilic on pathologic examination. The excess production of ACTH by the tumor results in Cushing’s syndrome.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Pituitary adenomas may grow and compress adjacent structures, most commonly causing a bitemporal hemianopsia due to compression of the optic chiasm. Lateral extension into the cavernous sinuses can result in cranial nerve palsies.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]