PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT OF CUSHING SYNDROME: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF CURRENT AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Objective: The general objective of this study is to analyze the scientific literature on Cushing's Syndrome (CS), seeking to identify the main clinical manifestations, complications, and the impact on patients' quality of life. Methodology: Searches were performed in the PubMed Central (PMC) databases, using three descriptors in combination with the Boolean term “AND”: Cushing Syndrome, Clinical Manifestations, Complications, and Quality of Life. A total of 161 articles were found, which were subsequently submitted to the selection criteria. Twenty-two studies were selected to compose this systematic review, of which 12 were used. Results: Cushing's Syndrome is a condition characterized by hypercortisolism, which results in a wide range of clinical manifestations. Complications associated with CS include visceral obesity, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, osteoporosis, and myopathy. In addition, CS has a significant impact on patients' mental health, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Therapeutic approaches range from transsphenoidal surgery, radiotherapy, to targeted drug treatments to normalize cortisol levels and address comorbidities. Conclusion: CS is associated with several comorbidities that affect multiple body systems, resulting in a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment are essential to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life in these patients.