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Yami Channaiah C, Karlekar M, Sarathi V, Lila AR, Ravindra S, Badhe PV, Malhotra G, Memon SS, Patil VA, Pramesh CS, Bandgar T. Paediatric and adolescent ectopic Cushing's syndrome: systematic review. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 189:S75-S87. [PMID: 37801647 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The data on clinical, biochemical, radiological characteristics, and outcomes in paediatric ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone syndrome (EAS) are limited owing to rarity of the condition. We report three new cases and perform a systematic review of paediatric EAS. DESIGN AND METHOD Case records of paediatric and adolescent EAS patient's ≤20 years presenting at our centre between 1997 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed, and a systematic review of the literature published between January 1970 and December 2022 was performed. RESULTS A total of 161 patients including 3 new patients from our centre were identified. Bronchial neuroendocrine tumours (NET) (28.5%), thymic NET (22.9%), primitive cell-derived tumours (18.6%), and gastro-entero-pancreatic-NET (13.7%) were the common causes. Primitive cell-derived tumours were the most common in the first decade (24/45, 53.4%) and were the largest (82 [60-100] mm), whereas bronchial NETs predominated during the second decade (42/116, 36.2%) and were the smallest (15 [10-25] mm). Computed tomography localized 92.9% (118/127) of paediatric EAS patients. Immediate postoperative remission was attained in 77.9% (88/113) patients, whereas 30.4% (24/79) relapsed over a median (IQR) period of 13 (8-36) months. Over a median (IQR) follow-up of 2 (0.6-4.6) years, 31.4% of patients died. The median survival was higher in bronchial NET than in other tumour groups. Distant metastasis and tumour size were independent negative predictors of survival. CONCLUSIONS Aetiological profile of paediatric and adolescent EAS is distinct from that of adults. Bronchial NETs have the best long-term survival, whereas distant metastasis and tumour size predict poor survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chethan Yami Channaiah
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Manjiri Karlekar
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Vijaya Sarathi
- Department of Endocrinology, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru 560066, India
| | - Anurag Ranjan Lila
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Shruthi Ravindra
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Narayana Medical College, Nellore 524001, India
| | - Padma Vikram Badhe
- Department of Radiology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Gaurav Malhotra
- Radiation Medical Centre, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Saba Samad Memon
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
| | | | - C S Pramesh
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Tushar Bandgar
- Department of Endocrinology, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai 400012, India
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Ciftci S, Soyluk O, Selek A, Erol S, Hekimsoy Z, Esen A, Dursun H, Sahin S, Oruk G, Mert M, Soylu H, Yurekli BS, Ertorer ME, Omma T, Evran M, Adas M, Tanrikulu S, Aydin K, Pekkolay Z, Can B, Karakilic E, Karaca Z, Bilen H, Canturk Z, Cetinarslan B, Kadioglu P, Yarman S. The Importance of DHEA-S Levels in Cushing's Syndrome; Is There a Cut-off Value in the Differential Diagnosis? Horm Metab Res 2022; 54:232-237. [PMID: 35413744 DOI: 10.1055/a-1783-7901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine possible cut-off levels of basal DHEA-S percentile rank in the differential diagnosis of patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) with ACTH levels in the gray zone and normal DHEA-S levels. In this retrospective study including 623 pathologically confirmed CS, the DHEA-S percentile rank was calculated in 389 patients with DHEA-S levels within reference interval. The patients were classified as group 1 (n=265 Cushing's disease; CD), group 2 (n=104 adrenal CS) and group 3 (n=20 ectopic ACTH syndrome).ROC-curve analyses were used to calculate the optimal cut-off level of DHEA-S percentile rank in the reference interval in the differential diagnosis of CS, and the effectiveness of this cut-off level in the identification of the accurate etiology of CS was assessed in patients who were in gray zone according to their ACTH levels. The DHEA-S percentile rank in the reference interval were significantly lower in group 2 compared to the other two groups (p<0.001), while group 1 and group 3 had similar levels. The optimal cut-off level of DHEA-S percentile rank in the reference interval providing differential diagnosis between group 1 and group 2 was calculated as 19.5th percentile (80.8% sensitivity, 81.5% specificity) and the level demonstrated the accurate etiology in 100% of CD and 76% of adrenal CS patients who were in the gray zone. This study showed that the cut-off value of DHEA-S level less than 20% of the reference interval could be used for differential diagnosis of CD and adrenal CS with high sensitivity and specificity, and it should be taken into the initial evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema Ciftci
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolsim, University of Health Sciences, Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Soyluk
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University, Fatih, Turkey
| | - Alev Selek
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Selvinaz Erol
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Health Sciences, Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Ayse Esen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolsim, University of Health Sciences, Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Dursun
- Department of Endocrinology and Meatbolism, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Serdar Sahin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gonca Oruk
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Izmir Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Meral Mert
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolsim, University of Health Sciences, Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Soylu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ondokuz Mayis University, School of Medicine, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Banu Sarer Yurekli
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Melek Eda Ertorer
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Adana, Turkey
| | - Tulay Omma
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ankara Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehtap Evran
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Çukurova University Medical Faculty, Adana, Turkey
| | - Mine Adas
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Health Sciences, Okmeydani Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seher Tanrikulu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolsim, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kadriye Aydin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kartal Dr. Lutfi Kirdar Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zafer Pekkolay
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Dicle Faculty of Medicine, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Bülent Can
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ersen Karakilic
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University Medical Faculty, Çanakkale, Turkey
| | - Zuleyha Karaca
- Department of Endocrinology and Meatbolism, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Habib Bilen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ataturk University Faculty of Medicine, Ezurum, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Canturk
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Berrin Cetinarslan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Pinar Kadioglu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sema Yarman
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Istanbul University, Fatih, Turkey
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do Vale S, Selinger L, Martins JM, Gomes AC, Bicho M, do Carmo I, Escera C. The relationship between dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), working memory and distraction--a behavioral and electrophysiological approach. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104869. [PMID: 25105970 PMCID: PMC4126777 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate (DHEAS) have been reported to have memory enhancement effects in humans. A neuro-stimulatory action and an anti-cortisol mechanism of action may contribute to that relation. In order to study DHEA, DHEAS and cortisol relations to working memory and distraction, we recorded the electroencephalogram of 23 young women performing a discrimination (no working memory load) or 1-back (working memory load) task in an audio-visual oddball paradigm. We measured salivary DHEA, DHEAS and cortisol both before each task and at 30 and 60 min. Under working memory load, a higher baseline cortisol/DHEA ratio was related to higher distraction as indexed by an enhanced novelty P3. This suggests that cortisol may lead to increased distraction whereas DHEA may hinder distraction by leading to less processing of the distractor. An increased DHEA production with consecutive cognitive tasks was found and higher DHEA responses attributed to working memory load were related to enhanced working memory processing as indexed by an enhanced visual P300. Overall, the results suggest that in women DHEA may oppose cortisol effects reducing distraction and that a higher DHEA response may enhance working memory at the electrophysiological level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sónia do Vale
- Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior (IR3C), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Group, Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Department, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Endocrinology University Clinic, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department, Santa Maria University Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal
- Metabolism and Endocrinology Center, Genetics Laboratory, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- * E-mail:
| | - Lenka Selinger
- Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior (IR3C), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Group, Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Department, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - João Martin Martins
- Endocrinology University Clinic, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department, Santa Maria University Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal
- Metabolism and Endocrinology Center, Genetics Laboratory, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Coelho Gomes
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department, Santa Maria University Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuel Bicho
- Metabolism and Endocrinology Center, Genetics Laboratory, Lisbon Medical School, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel do Carmo
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Department, Santa Maria University Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carles Escera
- Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior (IR3C), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Cognitive Neuroscience Research Group, Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology Department, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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Lodish MB, Gourgari E, Sinaii N, Hill S, Libuit L, Mastroyannis S, Keil M, Batista DL, Stratakis C. Skeletal maturation in children with Cushing syndrome is not consistently delayed: the role of corticotropin, obesity, and steroid hormones, and the effect of surgical cure. J Pediatr 2014; 164:801-6. [PMID: 24412141 PMCID: PMC3963265 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2013.11.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess skeletal maturity by measuring bone age (BA) in children with Cushing syndrome (CS) before and 1-year after transsphenoidal surgery or adrenalectomy, and to correlate BA with hormone levels and other measurements. STUDY DESIGN This case series conducted at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center included 93 children with Cushing disease (CD) (43 females; mean age, 12.3 ± 2.9 years) and 31 children with adrenocorticotropic hormone-independent CS (AICS) (22 females, mean age 10.3 ± 4.5 years). BA was obtained before surgery and at follow-up. Outcome measures were comparison of BA in CD vs AICS and analysis of the effects of hypercortisolism, insulin excess, body mass index, and androgen excess on BA. RESULTS Twenty-six of the 124 children (21.0%) had advanced BA, compared with the expected general population prevalence of 2.5% (P < .0001). Only 4 of 124 (3.2%) had delayed BA. The majority of children (76%) had normal BA. The average BA z-score was similar in the children with CD and those with AICS (0.6 ± 1.4 vs 0.5 ± 1.8; P = .8865). Body mass index SDS and normalized values of dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, androsteonedione, estradiol, and testosterone were all significantly higher in the children with advanced BA vs those with normal or delayed BA. Fifty-nine children who remained in remission from CD had follow-up BA 1.2 ± 0.3 years after transsphenoidal surgery, demonstrating decreased BA z-score (1.0 ± 1.6 vs 0.3 ± 1.4; P < .0001). CONCLUSION Contrary to common belief, endogenous CS in children appears to be associated with normal or even advanced skeletal maturation. When present, BA advancement in CS is related to obesity, insulin resistance, and elevated adrenal androgen levels and aromatization. This finding may have significant implications for treatment decisions and final height predictions in these children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya B Lodish
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Evgenia Gourgari
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
| | - Ninet Sinaii
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Service, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20982
| | - Suvimol Hill
- Department of Radiology, National Institutes of Health Clinical Center Bethesda, MD 20892
| | - Laura Libuit
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
| | - Spyridon Mastroyannis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
| | - Meg Keil
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
| | - Dalia L. Batista
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02912
| | - Constantine Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892
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Lappalainen S, Utriainen P, Kuulasmaa T, Voutilainen R, Jääskeläinen J. ACTH receptor promoter polymorphism associates with severity of premature adrenarche and modulates hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis in children. Pediatr Res 2008; 63:410-4. [PMID: 18356748 DOI: 10.1203/pdr.0b013e3181659c14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The genetic mechanisms underlying the regulation of adrenarche are unknown. The aim of the study was to find out whether ACTH receptor (MC2R) promoter polymorphism associates with premature adrenarche (PA) and its characteristics. DNA samples of 74 prepubertal children with PA and their age- and gender-matched 97 healthy controls were genotyped for the -2 bp T/C diallelic MC2R promoter polymorphism (MC2R -2 T>C) All children were examined clinically, and hormonal measurements after an overnight fast and a low-dose ACTH stimulation test were performed. In controls, the baseline ACTH/cortisol ratio was significantly higher (p = 0.002) in subjects with the polymorphism than in the T/T group indicating decreased ACTH sensitivity. The frequency of the MC2R -2 T>C polymorphism was significantly higher in PA children with premature pubarche than in those with milder signs of PA or in control children (p = 0.04). In children with PA, the polymorphism associated with higher baseline serum dehydroepiandrosterone (p = 0.03), androstenedione (p = 0.02), plasma ACTH (p = 0.03) levels and with lower birth weight (p = 0.02). Our study provides evidence that the MC2R promoter polymorphism modulates the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis in children and may play a role in altered regulation of adrenarche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saila Lappalainen
- Department of Pediatrics, Kuopio University and University Hospital, 70211 Kuopio, Finland.
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Matchock RL, Dorn LD, Susman EJ. Diurnal and seasonal cortisol, testosterone, and DHEA rhythms in boys and girls during puberty. Chronobiol Int 2007; 24:969-90. [PMID: 17994350 DOI: 10.1080/07420520701649471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Diurnal and seasonal rhythms of cortisol, testosterone, and DHEA were examined, as little is known about the relationship between these rhythmicities and pubertal development. Salivary samples were obtained from 60 boys and 60 girls at approximately 07:45, 08:00, 08:30, 12:00, 16:50, and 21:00 h. The participants' ages ranged from 8-14 yrs, and each participant was tested three times at six-month intervals. The study was conducted at a General Clinical Research Center (GCRC) and at the homes of the participants. All hormones showed diurnal fluctuations. The acrophase (peak time) of cortisol occurred earlier than for testosterone or DHEA and showed a seasonal effect, with the acrophase occurring earlier in spring than in summer. The cortisol acrophase also occurred later in the day for boys than for girls during later puberty. Seasonal effects were found only for cortisol with higher concentrations in the spring and summer. Cortisol concentrations were relatively stable across pubertal maturation, but significantly lower concentrations were observed at pubertal stage 3 compared to the other stages. Morning cortisol levels were also higher in boys at pubertal stage 2. Testosterone concentrations were higher in boys at pubertal stages 3 and 4, and DHEA was lower at pubertal stage 1 than 3 and 4 for both boys and girls. For the total sample, there was a positive correlation between DHEA and testosterone during early puberty (stages 1-3) but not later puberty (stages 4-5). Awakening secretory activity correlated with daytime secretory activity for testosterone and DHEA, but not for cortisol. These data provide novel chronobiological information on cortisol, testosterone, and DHEA as it relates to sexual maturation and encourage further study on both normal and abnormal endocrine rhythms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Matchock
- Department of Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, Altoona, Pennsylvania 16601, USA.
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Dupuis CC, Storr HL, Perry LA, Ho JTF, Ahmed L, Ong KK, Dunger DB, Monson JP, Grossman AB, Besser GM, Savage MO. Abnormal puberty in paediatric Cushing's disease: relationship with adrenal androgen, sex hormone binding globulin and gonadotrophin concentrations. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2007; 66:838-43. [PMID: 17437509 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2007.02822.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Paediatric Cushing's disease is frequently associated with abnormal puberty. We addressed the hypothesis that prepubertal patients show excessive virilization and pubertal patients show suppression of LH and FSH secretion. DESIGN AND MEASUREMENTS Serum androstenedione (A4), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), testosterone (T), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were determined at diagnosis and converted to standard deviation scores. LH, FSH concentrations were also determined. Severity of CD was assessed from the sleeping midnight cortisol concentration. Puberty was staged and excessive virilization defined as advance in pubic hair stage for breast stage or testicular volume (TV). PATIENTS Twenty-seven CD patients (17 male, 10 female), median age 13.4 years (range 5.9-17.8) were studied. RESULTS In the CD group as a whole, A4, DHEAS, T standard deviation scores (SDS) values were normal. SHBG SDS values (n = 19) were low (median -1.93, -4.32-0.86) correlating with BMI (r = -0.49). A4, DHEAS, T, SHBG, LH and FSH did not correlate with midnight cortisol, but A4 and T SDS correlated with ACTH at 09.00 h (both r = 0.51). Thirteen patients (11 male, 2 female) had excessive virilization with increased A4 (P = 0.033), DHEAS (P = 0.008), testosterone (P = 0.033) and decreased SHBG (P = 0.004) compared with subjects without excessive virilization. Pubertal boys (TV > or = 4 ml) (n = 7) and girls (breasts > or = stage 2) (n = 8) had low median LH and FSH. Boys had an LH concentration of 1.2 mU/l (0.3-3.5), FSH, 0.9 mU/l (0.2-6.4) and median T SDS, -1.95 (-3.8-4.65), while girls had an LH concentration of 1 mU/l (0.3-7.4). CONCLUSIONS Many patients had abnormal puberty and excessive virilization associated with increased adrenal androgens and decreased SHBG. Pubertal patients had low LH and FSH suggesting impaired pituitary-gonadal axis function.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Dupuis
- Department of Endocrinology, Barts and the Royal London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
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Storr HL, Chan LF, Grossman AB, Savage MO. Paediatric Cushing's syndrome: epidemiology, investigation and therapeutic advances. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2007; 18:167-74. [PMID: 17412607 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2007.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2007] [Revised: 03/05/2007] [Accepted: 03/19/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS), which is caused by excessive circulating glucocorticoid concentrations, is rare in the paediatric age range but presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Most paediatric endocrinologists have limited experience of managing children or adolescents with CS and thus benefit from close consultation with colleagues who treat adult patients. A protocol for investigation is required that broadly follows the model for adult patients. Here, the epidemiology and diagnosis of different causes of CS are discussed according to typical age of presentation. Treatment strategies for adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)-independent and ACTH-dependent CS are described and critically appraised. The management of paediatric CS patients after cure also presents challenges for optimizing growth, bone health, reproduction and body composition from childhood into and during adult life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen L Storr
- Department of Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry, John Vane Science Centre, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
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Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is rare in the pediatric age range, but may present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Most pediatric endocrinologists have limited experience managing children or adolescents with CD and thus benefit from close consultation with adult colleagues. A diagnostic protocol for investigation is required which broadly follows the model for adult patients. Treatment strategies for CD are described and critically appraised. The management of pediatric CD patients after cure also presents challenges for optimizing growth, bone health, reproduction and body composition from childhood into and during adult life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O Savage
- Department of Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, John Vane Science Centre, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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Taha D, Mullis PE, Ibáñez L, de Zegher F. Absent or Delayed Adrenarche in Pit-1/POU1F1 Deficiency. Horm Res Paediatr 2005; 64:175-9. [PMID: 16210857 DOI: 10.1159/000088793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2005] [Accepted: 08/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of the PIT1/POU1F1 gene are responsible for a rare variant of anterior hypopituitarism, including deficiency of growth hormone, prolactin and thyrotropin. In 8 ethnically diverse POU1F1-deficient patients (4 different mutations) with normal circulating levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone, and with spontaneous onset and progression of puberty, we observed an absence or delay of adrenarche (median circulating dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate -6.2 SD); in each of the 4 postmenarcheal females, pubarche (i.e. appearance of pubic hair) was also absent or delayed. The absence/delay of adrenarche in POU1F1-deficient patients and the absence/delay of pubarche in POU1F1-deficient females suggest that a POU1F1-dependent factor contributes to the normal development of adrenarche and female pubarche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Taha
- Department of Pediatrics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre-Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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Irmak MK, Oztas E, Vural H. Dependence of fetal hairs and sebaceous glands on fetal adrenal cortex and possible control from adrenal medulla. Med Hypotheses 2004; 62:486-92. [PMID: 15050094 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2004.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2004] [Accepted: 01/12/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Human fetal adrenal development is characterized by rapid growth, high steroidogenic activity, and a distinct morphology, including a unique cortical compartment known as the fetal zone. For most of gestation, the predominant fetal zone accounts for 80-90% of the cortical volume and is the primary site of growth and steroidogenesis, producing 100-200 mg/day of the androgenic steroid, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). The physiological role of this zone during intrauterine life is not well understood. While the glands appear to be capable of DHEA-S synthesis early in gestation (8-10 weeks), we noticed that this event precedes the differentiation of hairs and sebaceous glands. Hairs begin to develop between 9 and 12 weeks and sebaceous glands between 13 and 15 weeks of gestation. Sebaceous glands form an oily secretion - sebum that mixes with desquamated epidermal cells to form vernix caseosa. Vernix caseosa protects the developing skin from constant exposure to amniotic fluid, and hairs helps to hold the vernix caseosa on the skin. We suggest therefore that the human fetal adrenal cortex produces DHEA-S beginning at around 8-10 weeks of gestation in sufficient quantities to influence the growth of hairs and sebaceous glands. Soon after birth, the fetal zone atrophies, and adrenal androgen production decreases to minimal levels. As a consequence, in concordance with the rapid decrease in adrenal androgen levels and in consistent with our hypothesis, fetal hairs are shed and sebaceous glands shrink to small structures. The mechanism that regulates fetal adrenal androgen production is a key unanswered problem in human adrenal biology. Since there exists a close relationship between epinephrine and DHEA-S levels during adrenarche which shows modulatory interactions between adrenal androgen production and adrenomedullary function, we suggest again that adrenomedullary function might play a role in the control of fetal adrenal androgen secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Irmak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Gulhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey.
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12
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Abstract
Adrenarche is the puberty of the adrenal gland. The descriptive term "pubarche" indicates the appearance of pubic hair, which may be accompanied by axillary hair. This process is considered premature if it occurs before age 8 yr in girls and 9 yr in boys. The chief hormonal products of adrenarche are DHEA and DHEAS. The well-documented evolution of adrenarche in primates and men is incompatible with either a neutral or harmful role for DHEA and implies most likely a positive role for some aspects of young adult pubertal maturation and developmental maturation. Premature adrenarche has no adverse effects on the onset and progression of gonadarche and/or final height. Mechanisms for initiation of adrenal androgen secretion at adrenarche are still not well understood. Maturational increases in 17-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase are seen together with a lower activity of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3beta-HSD). There is good evidence that the zona reticularis is the source of adrenal androgens. Adrenarche and gonadarche are regulated differently. Although premature adrenarche has been thought to be a benign, normal variant of puberty, our findings indicate that, for certain girls, premature adrenarche represents an early clinical feature of syndrome X (obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance). Perhaps the early identification of these patients will permit early therapy, such as lifestyle changes, including dietary and activity level intervention. As insulin resistance is an underlying feature of premature adrenarche, it seems rational to assess the efficacy and safety of using insulin-sensitizing agents to treat these individuals. In the absence of controlled longitudinal studies, the cross-sectional data available from our studies suggest that premature pubarche driven by premature adrenarche and hyperinsulinemia may precede the development of ovarian hyperandrogenism, and this sequence may have an early origin with low birth weight serving as a marker. Premature adrenarche may thus be a forerunner of syndrome X in some girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Saenger
- Department of Pediatrics, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10467, USA.
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Ibáñez L, Dimartino-Nardi J, Potau N, Saenger P. Premature adrenarche--normal variant or forerunner of adult disease? Endocr Rev 2000; 21:671-96. [PMID: 11133068 DOI: 10.1210/edrv.21.6.0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Adrenarche is the puberty of the adrenal gland. The descriptive term pubarche indicates the appearance of pubic hair, which may be accompanied by axillary hair. This process is considered premature if it occurs before age 8 yr in girls and 9 yr in boys. The chief hormonal product of adrenarche is dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated product DHEA-S. The well documented evolution of adrenarche in primates and man is incompatible with either a neutral or harmful role for DHEA and implies most likely a positive role for some aspect of young adult pubertal maturation and developmental maturation. Premature adrenarche has no adverse effects on the onset and progression of gonadarche in final height. Both extra- and intraadrenal factors regulate adrenal androgen secretion. Recent studies have shown that premature adrenarche in childhood may have consequences such as functional ovarian hyperandrogenism, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and insulin resistance in later life, sometimes already recognizable in childhood or adolescence. Premature adrenarche may thus be a forerunner of syndrome X in some children. The association of these endocrine-metabolic abnormalities with reduced fetal growth and their genetic basis remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Ibáñez
- Endocrinology Unit, Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Spain
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Merke DP, Keil MF, Jones JV, Fields J, Hill S, Cutler GB. Flutamide, testolactone, and reduced hydrocortisone dose maintain normal growth velocity and bone maturation despite elevated androgen levels in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2000; 85:1114-20. [PMID: 10720048 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.85.3.6462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Treatment outcome in congenital adrenal hyperplasia is often sub-optimal due to hyperandrogenism, treatment-induced hypercortisolism, or both. We previously reported better control of linear growth, weight gain, and bone maturation in a short term cross-over study of a new four-drug treatment regimen containing an antiandrogen (flutamide), an inhibitor of androgen to estrogen conversion (testolactone), reduced hydrocortisone dose, and fludrocortisone, compared to the effects of a control regimen of hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone. Twenty-eight children have completed 2 yr of follow-up in a subsequent long term randomized parallel study comparing these two treatment regimens. During 2 yr of therapy, compared to children receiving hydrocortisone, and fludrocortisone treatment, children receiving flutamide, testolactone, reduced hydrocortisone dose (average of 8.7 +/- 0.6 mg/m2 x day), and fludrocortisone had significantly (P < or = 0.05) higher plasma 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and testosterone levels. Despite elevated androgen levels, children receiving the new treatment regimen had normal linear growth rate (at 2 yr, 0.1 +/- 0.5 SD units), and bone maturation (at 2 yr, 0.7 +/- 0.3 yr bone age/yr chronological age). No significant adverse effects were observed after 2 yr. We conclude that the regimen of flutamide, testolactone, reduced hydrocortisone dose, and fludrocortisone provides effective control of congenital adrenal hyperplasia with reduced risk of glucocorticoid excess. A long term study of this new regimen is ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Merke
- Warren Grant Magnuson Clinical Center, Developmental Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda Maryland 20892-1862, USA.
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16
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Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated metabolite DHEA-S are endogenous hormones secreted by the adrenal cortex in response to adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH). Much has been published regarding potential effects on various systems. Despite the identification of DHEA and DHEA-S more than 50 years ago, there is still considerable controversy as to their biological significance. This article reviews the metabolism and physiology of DHEA and DHEA-S, the influence of age and gender on concentrations, and changes in endogenous concentrations associated with disease states and other factors, including diet and exercise. This article is unique in that it also summarizes the influence of drugs on DHEA and DHEA-S concentrations, as well as concentrations of DHEA and DHEA-S observed after the administration of DHEA by various routes. Sections of the article specifically address DHEA and DHEA-S concentrations as they relate to stress, central nervous system function and psychiatric disorders, insulin sensitivity, immunological function, and cardiovascular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D Kroboth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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Gell JS, Carr BR, Sasano H, Atkins B, Margraf L, Mason JI, Rainey WE. Adrenarche results from development of a 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-deficient adrenal reticularis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1998; 83:3695-701. [PMID: 9768686 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.83.10.5070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Adrenarche is the increased adrenal production of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) that occurs during the prepubertal period. To date, the exact mechanism initiating adrenarche is unknown, although many factors have been postulated. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that alterations in intra-adrenal expression of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3betaHSD) or 21-hydroxylase (CYP21) within the inner reticularis zone leads to the increased production of 19-carbon (C19) steroids. After conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, 17alpha-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17) can metabolize pregnenolone through to DHEA. The enzyme 3betaHSD competes for substrate with CYP17 and effectively removes steroid precursor from the pathway leading to DHEA. On the other hand, deficiency in CYP21 expression is known to cause excessive production of adrenal C19 steroids, suggesting that CYP21 could play a role in adrenarche. Thus, a decrease in 3betaHSD or CYP21 expression would allow substrate to flow toward the synthesis of DHEA. To determine whether adrenarche results from a decreased expression of 3betaHSD or CYP21 in the reticularis, immunohistochemical localization of 3betaHSD and CYP21 was performed, and staining intensities compared using adrenal glands from children ages 4 months to 4 yr (n = 12), ages 5-7 yr (n = 9), ages 8-13 yr (n = 9), and adults ages 25-56 yr (n = 8). There were no differences in the zonal expression of CYP21. No difference in 3betaHSD staining was observed between the glomerulosa and fasciculata from any age group. However, children age 8 yr and older show a significant decrease in 3betaHSD expression in reticularis as compared with the fasciculata. No significant difference was noted for 3betaHSD levels between the fasciculata and reticularis for children age 7 yr or younger. The level of 3betaHSD expression in the reticularis continued to decrease in the adult adrenals examined. These findings suggest that as children mature there is a decreased level of 3betaHSD in the adrenal reticularis that may contribute to the increased production of DHEA and DHEAS seen during adrenarche.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Gell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235-9032, USA
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McKenna TJ, Fearon U, Clarke D, Cunningham SK. A critical review of the origin and control of adrenal androgens. BAILLIERE'S CLINICAL OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY 1997; 11:229-48. [PMID: 9536209 DOI: 10.1016/s0950-3552(97)80035-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The reticularis and fasciculata zones of the adrenal cortex are the predominant sources of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-sulphate and contribute directly or indirectly 60-75% of androstenedione and testosterone in women. The specific control of adrenal androgens remains unclear. While ACTH stimulates adrenal androgen secretion, the dissociation of cortisol and androgens occurring during adrenarche and under pathological conditions suggests other factors are involved. Recent studies using human adrenal cells in vitro have demonstrated that the ratio of androgen to cortisol produced is substantially independent of the age and gender of the adrenal, indicating that extra-adrenal factors are of greater importance. beta-Endorphin and joining peptide have been shown to stimulate androgen production in human adrenal cells and to influence ACTH-stimulated steroidogenesis in a manner that promotes adrenal androgen production. The activity of these pro-opiomelanocortin-derived peptides may explain the physiological and pathological dissociations of androgens and cortisol.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J McKenna
- Department of Endocrinology, St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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20
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Gell JS, Atkins B, Margraf L, Mason JI, Sasano H, Rainey WE, Carr BR. Adrenarche is associated with decreased 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase expression in the adrenal reticularis. Endocr Res 1996; 22:723-8. [PMID: 8969933 DOI: 10.1080/07435809609043768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The increased production of adrenal dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS) which occurs during the prepubertal period is known as adrenarche. One hypothesis for adrenarche is that alterations in intra-adrenal expression of steroidogenic enzymes within the inner reticularis zone leads to the increased production of 19-carbon steroids. We tested the hypothesis that at the time of adrenarche there is decreased expression of 3 beta HSD in the reticularis. Immunohistochemical localization of 3 beta HSD was performed and staining intensities compared between adrenal glands from children ages 4 months to 7 years (N = 11) and ages 8 to 11 years (N = 6). No difference was observed between the levels of staining in the glomerulosa and fasciculata from either age group. However, the reticularis from the older children exhibited diminished 3 beta HSD immunoreactivity. These findings suggest that as children mature there is a decreased level of 3 beta HSD in the adrenal reticularis which may contribute to the increased production of DHEA and DHEAS seen during adrenarche.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Gell
- Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
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Brunelli VL, Chiumello G, David M, Forest MG. Adrenarche does not occur in treated patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 1995; 42:461-6. [PMID: 7621563 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.1995.tb02663.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There have been few studies of adrenarche in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We have therefore sought to detect the onset of adrenarche in CAH patients and to investigate whether its evolution was influenced by the severity of the disease, the age at the onset of substitution therapy, or both. DESIGN AND PATIENTS Sixteen female CAH patients were studied longitudinally for 4-11 years. They were all given substitution therapy and treatments were well controlled as judged by repeated hormonal evaluations. The patients were divided into two groups: group A consisted of 10 girls with a severe classic (congenital) form, while group B included 6 girls presenting with a non-classic form. MEASUREMENTS Circulating levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), were determined as an indicator of adrenarche. Hormonal assessments included measurements of 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), testosterone, ACTH and plasma renin activity. All were estimated by conventional specific assays. RESULTS Mean levels were analysed in consecutive two-year age periods. In group A, DHEAS levels were significantly lower at any age than in control subjects, and lower than in patients with non-classic CAH. DHEAS levels showed no increment with age. In group B, plasma DHEAS levels were surprisingly high for the age at the time of diagnosis, declining gradually on substitution therapy, although they remained somewhat higher than in group A. CONCLUSIONS The high DHEAS levels observed in untreated girls of group B are probably the result of chronic hypersecretion of ACTH. Under well controlled, non-suppressive substitution therapy, patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia showed no rise in DHEAS levels at the physiological age of adrenarche whatever the degree of the enzyme defect and whatever the age at onset of therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- V L Brunelli
- Department of Pediatrics, Scientific Institute H. S. Raffaele, University of Milan, Italy
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES While ACTH may modulate adrenal androgen production, there is evidence that other factors are required. Cushing's disease and ectopic ACTH secretion provide a little utilized opportunity to examine adrenal androgen levels in conditions of ACTH excess. We have compared plasma cortisol values with plasma levels of androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA-sulphate (DHEAS), testosterone and an index of free testosterone, the testosterone/sex hormone binding globulin ratio, prior to treatment in patients with Cushing's syndrome. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS Plasma from 15 adult patients with Cushing's disease and three adults with the ectopic ACTH syndrome was obtained prior to treatment and submitted to specific immunoassays for the measurement of the above steroids. RESULTS Plasma cortisol values of 15 patients with Cushing's disease (range 326-1140 nmol/l, normal range 190-690 nmol/l) were elevated in 9; in contrast, plasma androstenedione (4.1-11.3 nmol/l, normal range, men 2.1-7.7, women 3.3-9.9 nmol/l) was elevated in only two patients, plasma DHEAS (3.3-17.8 mumol/l, normal range, men 4.5-18.4, women 3.5-11.8 mumol/l) was elevated in only 4 patients and plasma DHEA (4.8-45.2 nmol/l, normal range 11-48 nmol/l) was normal or low in all 15 patients. Plasma androstenedione was markedly elevated (74 nmol/l) in one of three patients with ectopic ACTH syndrome, moderately elevated in another, and normal in the third patient. In contrast, plasma DHEA and DHEAS levels were suppressed in the patient with the highest androstenedione level and low or normal in the other two patients. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that ACTH alone does not control adrenal androgen secretion. The data also suggest that variability in the processing of proopiomelanocortin (the precursor of ACTH and related peptides) occurring in Cushing's disease and ectopic ACTH syndrome may account for differences in the relation of cortisol to androgens observed between the disorders and when compared to that in normal subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Cunningham
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Mune T, Morita H, Yasuda K, Murayama M, Yamakita N, Miura K. Elevated plasma 19-hydroxyandrostenedione levels in Cushing's disease: stimulation with ACTH and inhibition with metyrapone. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 1993; 38:265-72. [PMID: 8384536 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.1993.tb01005.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The regulation of 19-hydroxyandrostenedione secretion has been suggested to be under the control of both the ACTH-adrenal axis and renin-angiotensin system. We undertook the present study to evaluate the effect of the chronic excess of ACTH, or the short-term excess of ACTH due to metyrapone, on 19-hydroxyandrostenedione secretion in patients with Cushing's disease. DESIGN AND PATIENTS We measured plasma 19-hydroxyandrostenedione levels simultaneously with plasma delta 4-androstenedione, corticosterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, aldosterone and cortisol levels after HPLC separation in 13 patients with Cushing's disease under basal conditions and during a dexamethasone suppression test or metyrapone test. Seven patients with Cushing's syndrome due to adrenal adenoma were used for comparison. RESULTS The basal levels of 19-hydroxyandrostenedione in Cushing's disease were elevated (mean +/- SD; 323 +/- 193 pmol/l, n = 13), while those in Cushing's syndrome due to adrenal adenoma were low (92 +/- 24 pmol/l, n = 7), compared to those in normal subjects (117 +/- 33 pmol/l, n = 54). The basal levels of delta 4-androstenedione were mildly elevated in Cushing's disease (9.0 +/- 6.5 vs 3.6 +/- 2.6 nmol/l of normal subjects) but not in Cushing's syndrome due to adrenal adenoma (3.1 +/- 3.0 nmol/l). In the overnight 8 mg dexamethasone suppression test in Cushing's disease (n = 12), plasma levels of 19-hydroxyandrostenedione and delta 4-androstenedione decreased from 277 +/- 172 to 156 +/- 99 pmol/l and from 9.2 +/- 6.8 to 4.7 +/- 3.4 nmol/l, respectively, whereas the overnight 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test did not induce significant changes. Metyrapone administration in Cushing's disease (n = 9) increased plasma delta 4-androstenedione level from 9.5 +/- 6.7 to 47.2 +/- 28.1 nmol/l, but decreased plasma 19-hydroxyandrostenedione level from 301 +/- 196 to 196 +/- 105 pmol/l. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that plasma levels of 19-hydroxyandrostenedione in patients with Cushing's disease are elevated due to chronic ACTH excess, and that metyrapone can inhibit 19-hydroxylation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mune
- Third Department of Internal Medicine, Gifu University School of Medicine, Japan
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Abstract
A 33 year old woman presented with recurrent Cushing's disease 4 years after complete remission induced by pituitary surgery. On relapse she exhibited the unusual pattern of elevated indices of cortisol secretion with markedly suppressed serum DHEA-S; urinary 17-ketosteroid excretion was also below the normal range. Biochemical testing was otherwise consistent with ACTH-mediated hypercortisolism, and adrenal histopathology showed bilateral hyperplasia with no evidence of tumor. This case illustrates that serum DHEA-S is not an infallible guide to the differential diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome, and it supports the existence of a pituitary-secreted adrenal androgen stimulating factor that is distinct from ACTH.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Louard
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
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Abstract
Androgens arise from either adrenal or ovarian secretion or by peripheral conversion of secreted precursors. The adrenals and ovaries normally contribute about equally to testosterone and AD production. DHAS is the major adrenal 17-KS. Testosterone is the major circulating form of androgen. More than 96% of plasma testosterone is bound to SHBG; the free testosterone seems to be the bioavailable fraction. Hyperandrogenism must be considered in any girl with premature or excessive development of public hair or acne, menstrual irregularity (whether it be oligo-amenorrhea or dysfunctional uterine bleeding), or obesity. The most common cause of premature public hair development (pubarche) is premature adrenarche. The most common cause of hyperandrogenism presenting in a teenage girl is polycystic ovary syndrome. However, the differential diagnosis includes "exaggerated adrenarche," late-onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia, virilizing tumors, Cushing's syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, acromegaly, and abnormalities of androgen action or of metabolism. The plasma free testosterone is a more sensitive indicator of hyperandrogenism than is the total testosterone concentration. The pattern of response of plasma free testosterone, DHAS, and cortisol to dex-suppression testing is diagnostic of the source of androgen excess. Most hyperandrogenic adolescents will be found to have PCOS. The treatment is chosen according to particular symptoms, such as menstrual irregularity, hirsutism, or obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Rosenfield
- University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine, Illinois
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Abstract
The regulation of steroid 17 alpha-hydroxylase in human and bovine adrenocortical cells in culture is reviewed. It is shown that (i) the long-term growth and cloning of normal human fetal adrenocortical cells in culture is feasible; (ii) the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate (TPA) is an effective mitogen in both clonal cultures and non-clonal early cultures of human adrenocortical cells, and shows a selective action in promoting adrenocortical cell growth and inhibiting fibroblast growth; (iii) the key steroidogenic enzymes, 17 alpha-hydroxylase and 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD), are under dual regulation by the cyclic AMP and protein kinase C second messenger systems; (iv) for 17 alpha-hydroxylase, this dual regulation is mediated by changes in 17 alpha-hydroxylase mRNA levels; (v) bovine adrenocortical cells can be transfected with SV40 T antigen, producing lines with elevated differentiated functions, including stabilized high expression of 17 alpha-hydroxylase; (vi) human adrenocortical cells can also be transfected with SV40 large T antigen, giving rise to functional cell lines which may be useful in future studies of 17 alpha-hydroxylase regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Hornsby
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912
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Van Dop C, Burstein S, Conte FA, Grumbach MM. Isolated gonadotropin deficiency in boys: clinical characteristics and growth. J Pediatr 1987; 111:684-92. [PMID: 2889818 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-3476(87)80243-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of the clinical findings and growth in 20 boys with isolated gonadotropin deficiency revealed a heterogeneous group of physical abnormalities. Ten of these patients were hyposmic or anosmic (Kallmann syndrome). Abnormalities found in our patients included undescended testes, gynecomastia, and ocular or skeletal anomalies. Regardless of the presence of hyposmia, patients without testicular enlargement (less than 2 cm3), had serum luteinizing hormone (LH) responses to luteinizing hormone-releasing factor (LRF) that were the same as in prepubertal boys. By contrast, five boys with testicular enlargement (greater than 2 cm3), some of whom had hyposmia, had a greater serum LH response to LRF than did prepubertal boys. Adrenarche was moderately delayed; although all boys initially had normal serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate, four boys eventually developed elevated serum levels. Bone ages were delayed compared with chronologic age in boys who had the condition after 15 years of age. The rate of linear growth was normal, and final adult heights were normal with testosterone therapy, although linear growth continued longer in these boys than in boys with normal pubertal progression. Although none of the patients was obese at the time of diagnosis, three patients developed obesity after initiation of testosterone therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Van Dop
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco 94143
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Voutilainen R, Riikonen R, Simell O, Perheentupa J. The effect of ACTH therapy on serum dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, testosterone and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone in infants. JOURNAL OF STEROID BIOCHEMISTRY 1987; 28:193-6. [PMID: 3041110 DOI: 10.1016/0022-4731(87)90377-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, testosterone, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and cortisol were measured in 10 infants (age 5-22 months) before, during and after 6-weeks of ACTH therapy for infantile spasms. During therapy, their mean DHEA concentrations increased 2.3-fold, androstenedione 12.3-fold, testosterone 2.7-fold, 5 alpha-dihydrotesterone 2.5-fold and cortisol 2.9-fold compared to pre-therapy values. Serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) concentrations were also increased during ACTH therapy above the normal prepubertal range. Three days after the cessation of ACTH treatment, all androgens had returned to the pre-therapy level. We conclude: At least in pharmacologic doses ACTH alone stimulates adrenal androgen secretion in infants, excluding the necessity of a separate adrenal androgen stimulating hormone.
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Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) was measured in serum from 274 children and adolescents aged 1 month to 18.7 years, and in 38 healthy adults. In the pediatric group, which comprised 131 males and 143 females, serum DHAS was markedly age-dependent. Values declined between 1 and 5 months after birth, but were generally less than 4 mumol/L. Between 6 months and 7 years DHAS was less than 0.5 mumol/L in boys and less than 1.0 mumol/L in girls. Above 8 years DHAS progressively increased in both sexes to less than 13 mumol/L in mid-late teenage males and less than 12 mumol/L in females of the same age, similar to the values observed in the adults. In children and adolescents over 10 years, there was considerable overlap in DHAS values between groups of children classified by pubertal stage, resulting from the dissociation between adrenal and gonadal development during normal puberty.
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