Hien gained 25 kg in two years, developing a large abdomen, a full, rounded face, and stretch marks. She also frequently experienced reduced concentration, poor memory, emotional instability, irritability, and irregular menstruation. When she visited Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City for an examination, she weighed 90 kg and was diagnosed with class two obesity, with a waist circumference of 108 cm (the safe level is 80 cm). Doctor Vo Tran Nguyen Duy, a specialist in endocrinology and diabetes, suspected Cushing's syndrome. Tests confirmed her cortisol levels exceeded 50 mcg/dL (the normal range is 6-23 mcg/dL), indicating endogenous Cushing's syndrome likely caused by an adrenal tumor.

Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It plays a role in reducing stress, controlling blood pressure, regulating blood sugar, metabolism, and inflammatory responses in the body.

Doctor Duy consults with Hien regarding her treatment. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

An MRI scan revealed Hien had a right adrenal tumor, measuring 31×23×23 mm. Doctor Duy explained, "The tumor autonomously secretes cortisol, which suppresses ACTH production from the pituitary gland, leading to Cushing's syndrome." Characteristic symptoms include obesity, stretch marks, memory loss, and emotional imbalance.

Hien underwent surgery to remove the tumor, and a biopsy confirmed it was benign. She continued with endocrine therapy and weight loss management. By combining weight loss medication, 30 minutes of daily exercise, and dietary adjustments, Hien lost 11 kg and reduced her waist circumference by 13 cm in two months.

This weight loss helped stabilize Hien's menstrual cycle and improved her mental well-being. The signs of Cushing's syndrome, such as hirsutism, a large face, an enlarged abdomen, and stretch marks, diminished. Hien continues to monitor her endocrine health and aims to lose an additional 9 kg.

Duc Hanh

*Patient's name has been changed