Abstract

Carney Complex (CNC) is an extremely rare multiple endocrine neoplasia caused by germline inactivating mutation in protein kinase A type I-alpha regulatory subunit (PRKAR1A gene). Mode of inheritance is mostly autosomal dominant; 25% of cases are due to de novo mutations. Only 750 world-wide cases have been reported. Most patients are diagnosed in the second or third decade. Clinical features include cutaneous myxomas, angiomyxoid nodules, lentiginous skin pigmentation, cardiac myxomas, and benign and rare malignant endocrine tumors. These endocrine tumors include and are not limited to prolactinomas, thyroid tumors, primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD), and large cell-calcifying Sertoli cell tumors (LCCSCT). Diagnosis is often challenging as disease manifestations can occur sporadically over a large span of time, and patients may present with various conditions such as Cushing syndrome, like our case. We present a case that demonstrates the importance of early recognition of this rare disorder.A 28-year-old Caucasian male with PMH of HFrEF, HTN, Sertoli cell tumor status post orchiectomy, vertebral fractures, and surgical removal of lip angiomyxoma presented to clinic for hypogonadism. Physical examination revealed marked Cushingoid features and facial lentigines above his eyes and on his lips. His eclectic medical history and unique exam findings lead to finding of a unifying diagnosis. His labs revealed severe Cushing syndrome, and computed tomography (CT) of his abdomen was performed due to ACTH independent hypercortisolism, demonstrating a bilateral lobular appearance of the adrenal glands.Combination of labs and physical exam findings of lentigines, skin myxomas, cushingoid features, rare angiomyxoma, LCCSCT and hypercortisolism lead to diagnosis of Carney Complex. He was misdiagnosed with Peutz-Jeghers in his adolescence due to LCCSCT and mucosal lentigines; therefore, hormonal screening was not routinely performed. Untreated Cushings led to severe osteoporosis with vertebral fractures and heart failure. Treatment included bilateral adrenalectomy. Pathology report confirmed rare PPNAD. PPNAD and LCCSCT are extremely rare tumors almost exclusively linked to Carney Complex. Interestingly, family history did not reveal endocrine disorders, cancers, or severe illnesses. Genetic testing returned positive for the PRKAR1A gene mutation. Given the consequences of untreated hormonal aberrations seen in this disorder, an early and accurate diagnosis is imperative.

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