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Detomas M, Deutschbein T, Altieri B. Medical Therapy of Endogenous Cushing's Syndrome with Steroidogenesis Inhibitors: Treatment Rationale, Available Drugs, and Therapeutic Effects. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2024. [PMID: 38688315 DOI: 10.1055/a-2317-0801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare disease characterized by a glucocorticoid excess. If inadequately treated, hypercortisolism can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Surgical removal of the underlying tumor is the first-line treatment but is sometimes not feasible or even contraindicated. Additionally, in cases with severe CS, rapid control of hypercortisolism may be required. In these scenarios, steroidogenesis inhibitors represent a therapeutic alternative to surgery. Over the last years, the knowledge of the broad therapeutic effects of steroidogenesis inhibitors per se and the number of available drugs have increased. However, large comparative studies are still lacking. Accordingly, the decision on which drug to be used in a certain patient or clinical setting may be difficult. This review aims to summarize the main characteristics of steroidogenesis inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Detomas
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Timo Deutschbein
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Medicover Oldenburg MVZ, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Bavaresco A, Mazzeo P, Lazzara M, Barbot M. Adipose tissue in cortisol excess: What Cushing's syndrome can teach us? Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 223:116137. [PMID: 38494065 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare condition due to prolonged exposure to elevated circulating cortisol levels that features its typical phenotype characterised by moon face, proximal myopathy, easy bruising, hirsutism in females and a centripetal distribution of body fat. Given the direct and indirect effects of hypercortisolism, CS is a severe disease burdened by increased cardio-metabolic morbidity and mortality in which visceral adiposity plays a leading role. Although not commonly found in clinical setting, endogenous CS is definitely underestimated leading to delayed diagnosis with consequent increased rate of complications and reduced likelihood of their reversal after disease control. Most of all, CS is a unique model for systemic impairment induced by exogenous glucocorticoid therapy that is commonly prescribed for a number of chronic conditions in a relevant proportion of the worldwide population. In this review we aim to summarise on one side, the mechanisms behind visceral adiposity and lipid metabolism impairment in CS during active disease and after remission and on the other explore the potential role of cortisol in promoting adipose tissue accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Bavaresco
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Mazzeo
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Martina Lazzara
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Mattia Barbot
- Department of Medicine DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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Ghalawinji A, Drezet L, Chaffanjon P, Muller M, Sturm N, Simiand A, Lazard A, Gay E, Chabre O, Cristante J. Discontinuation of Drug Treatment in Cushing's Disease Not Cured by Pituitary Surgery. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1000-1011. [PMID: 37962981 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad662] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE When transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) does not cure Cushing's disease (CD), 4 treatments are available: drug treatment (DT), second TSS (2nd TSS), bilateral adrenalectomy (BA), and pituitary radiotherapy (PR). DT is attractive but supposes long-term continuation, which we aimed to evaluate. DESIGN AND METHODS Retrospective study, in a center prioritizing 2nd TSS, of 36 patients, including 19 with TSS failure and 17 with recurrence, out of 119 patients with CD treated by a first TSS, average follow-up 6.1 years (95% confidence interval 5.27-6.91). Control was defined as normalization of urinary free cortisol (UFC) and final treatment (FT) as the treatment allowing control at last follow-up. We also analyzed discontinuation rates of DT in published CD prospective clinical trials. RESULTS Control was achieved in 33/36 patients (92%). DT was initiated in 29/36 patients (81%), allowing at least 1 normal UFC in 23/29 patients (79%) but was discontinued before last follow-up in 18/29 patients (62%). DT was FT in 11/29 patients (38%), all treated with cortisol synthesis inhibitors. Second TSS was FT in 8/16 (50%), BA in 14/14 (100%), and PR in 0/5. In published trials, discontinuation of DT was 11% to 51% at 1 year and 32% to 74% before 5 years. CONCLUSION DT allowed at least 1 normal UFC in 23/29 patients (79%) but obtained long-term control in only 11/29 (38%), as discontinuation rate was high, although similar to published data. Interestingly, a successful 2nd TSS was the cause for discontinuing efficient and well-tolerated DT in 5 patients. Further studies will show whether different strategies with cortisol synthesis inhibitors may allow for a lower discontinuation rate in patients not candidates for a 2nd TSS so that BA may be avoided in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel Ghalawinji
- Department of Endocrinology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Lucas Drezet
- National Institute of Engineering, 38031 Grenoble, France
| | - Philippe Chaffanjon
- Department of Endocrine and Thoracic Surgery CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Marie Muller
- Department of Endocrinology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Nathalie Sturm
- Department of Pathology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Anna Simiand
- Department of Endocrinology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Arnaud Lazard
- Department of Neurosurgery CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Emmanuel Gay
- Department of Neurosurgery CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
| | - Olivier Chabre
- Department of Endocrinology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche, INSERM-CEA-UGA UMR1292, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Justine Cristante
- Department of Endocrinology CHU Grenoble Alpes, University Grenoble Alpes, 38043 Grenoble, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche, INSERM-CEA-UGA UMR1292, 38000 Grenoble, France
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Seibold J, Hönemann M, Tönjes A, Sandner B. Safe long-term therapy of Cushing's syndrome over 37 years with mitotane. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1294415. [PMID: 38440784 PMCID: PMC10911286 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1294415] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
While suggested, surgery is not always possible as a first-line treatment of Cushing's Disease (CD). In such cases, patients require medical therapy in order to prevent complications resulting from hypercortisolism. Although there has been a wide expansion in pharmacological options in recent years, mitotane was the agent of choice for treating hypercortisolism decades ago. Due to the introduction of other therapies, long-term experience with mitotane remains limited. Here, we report the case of a woman with CD who was treated with mitotane for 37 years. During the treatment period, biochemical and clinical disease control was achieved and the patient had two uncomplicated pregnancies. Drug-related side effects remained moderate and could be controlled by several dose adjustments. Our case highlights the ability of mitotane to allow an effective control of hypercortisolism and to represent a safe treatment option in special situations where CD requires an alternative therapeutic approach. Furthermore, we provide a literature review of the long-term use of mitotane and reported cases of pregnancy in the context of mitotane therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Seibold
- Medical Department III - Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Mario Hönemann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Virology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anke Tönjes
- Medical Department III - Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Benjamin Sandner
- Medical Department III - Endocrinology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
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Divaris E, Kostopoulos G, Efstathiadou ZA. Current and Emerging Pharmacological Therapies for Cushing's Disease. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:757-777. [PMID: 38424426 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128290025240216110928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Cushing's Disease (CD), hypercortisolism due to pituitary ACTH secreting neuroendocrine neoplasm, is associated with increased morbidity and, if untreated, mortality in about half of the affected individuals. Consequently, the timely initiation of effective treatment is mandatory. Neurosurgery is the first line and the only potentially curative treatment; however, 30% of patients will have persistent disease post-surgery. Furthermore, a small percentage of those initially controlled will develop hypercortisolism during long-term follow- up. Therefore, patients with persistent or recurrent disease, as well as those considered non-eligible for surgery, will need a second-line therapeutic approach, i.e., pharmacotherapy. Radiation therapy is reserved as a third-line therapeutic option due to its slower onset of action and its unfavorable profile regarding complications. During the past few years, the understanding of molecular mechanisms implicated in the physiology of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis has evolved, and new therapeutic targets for CD have emerged. In the present review, currently available treatments, compounds currently tested in ongoing clinical trials, and interesting, potentially new targets emerging from unraveling molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efstathios Divaris
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kostopoulos
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Zoe A Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Fleseriu M, Varlamov EV, Hinojosa-Amaya JM, Langlois F, Melmed S. An individualized approach to the management of Cushing disease. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2023; 19:581-599. [PMID: 37537306 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-023-00868-7] [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] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Cushing disease caused by an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary corticotroph adenoma leads to hypercortisolaemia with high mortality due to metabolic, cardiovascular, immunological, neurocognitive, haematological and infectious conditions. The disorder is challenging to diagnose because of its common and heterogenous presenting features and the biochemical pitfalls of testing levels of hormones in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Several late-night salivary cortisol and 24-h urinary free cortisol tests are usually required as well as serum levels of cortisol after a dexamethasone suppression test. MRI might only identify an adenoma in 60-75% of patients and many adenomas are small. Therefore, inferior petrosal sinus sampling remains the gold standard for confirmation of ACTH secretion from a pituitary source. Initial treatment is usually transsphenoidal adenoma resection, but preoperative medical therapy is increasingly being used in some countries and regions. Other management approaches are required if Cushing disease persists or recurs following surgery, including medications to modulate ACTH or block cortisol secretion or actions, pituitary radiation, and/or bilateral adrenalectomy. All patients require lifelong surveillance for persistent comorbidities, clinical and biochemical recurrence, and treatment-related adverse effects (including development of treatment-associated hypopituitarism). In this Review, we discuss challenges in the management of Cushing disease in adults and provide information to guide clinicians when planning an integrated and individualized approach for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fleseriu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Elena V Varlamov
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Jose M Hinojosa-Amaya
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José E. González", Autonomous University of Nuevo León, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Fabienne Langlois
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l'Estrie - Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Shlomo Melmed
- Department of Medicine and Pituitary Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Innocenti F, Di Persio S, Taggi M, Maggio R, Lardo P, Toscano V, Canipari R, Vicini E, Stigliano A. Effect of Mitotane on Male Gonadal Function. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3234. [PMID: 37370841 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical evidence has shown frequent hypogonadism following mitotane (MTT) treatment in male patients with adrenocortical carcinoma. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of MTT on male gonadal function. METHODS Morphological analysis of testes and testosterone assays were performed on adult CD1 MTT-treated and untreated mice. The expression of key genes involved in interstitial and tubular compartments was studied by real-time PCR. Moreover, quantitative and qualitative analysis of spermatozoa was performed. RESULTS Several degrees of damage to the testes and a significant testosterone reduction in MTT-treated mice were observed. A significant decline in 3βHsd1 and Insl3 mRNA expression in the interstitial compartment confirmed an impairment of androgen production. Fsh-R mRNA expression was unaffected by MTT, proving that Sertoli cells are not the drug's primary target. Sperm concentrations were significantly lower in MTT-treated animals. Moreover, the drug caused a significant increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal chromatin structures. CONCLUSION MTT negatively affects the male reproductive system, including changes in the morphology of testicular tissue and reductions in sperm concentration and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Innocenti
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Di Persio
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marilena Taggi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Maggio
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Pina Lardo
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Toscano
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Canipari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Vicini
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic, Section of Histology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Stigliano
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Poirier J, Bonnet-Serrano F, Thomeret L, Bouys L, Bertherat J. Prolonged adrenocortical blockade following discontinuation of Osilodrostat. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:K29-K32. [PMID: 37300549 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Osilodrostat is the newest approved steroidogenic inhibitor drug for the treatment of hypercortisolism. In this article, we describe 3 patients who experienced a previously undescribed adverse event: a prolonged adrenocortical blockade following treatment cessation. METHODS Patient records showing a history of successful hypercortisolism control with Osilodrostat followed by at least 4 weeks of treatment interruption were reviewed. Patient characteristics and hormonal dosage were analyzed. RESULTS Persistence of adrenocortical blockade was found in 3 patients and lasted from 6 weeks to 9 months depending on patients. This phenomenon manifested in patients regardless of lower or higher daily Osilodrostat doses (2-10 mg) and total treatment duration did not seem to predict the severity of the blockade. CONCLUSION The finding of this previously undescribed side effect highlights the importance of continuing adrenal function monitoring after Osilodrostat interruption to prevent adrenal crisis in patients at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Poirier
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques -Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
| | - Fidéline Bonnet-Serrano
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'hormonologie-Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université Paris-Cité, Paris F-75014, France
| | - Louis Thomeret
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université Paris-Cité, Paris F-75014, France
| | - Lucas Bouys
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques -Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'hormonologie-Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université Paris-Cité, Paris F-75014, France
| | - Jérôme Bertherat
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques -Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'hormonologie-Hôpitaux universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris F-75014, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université Paris-Cité, Paris F-75014, France
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Abstract
Importance Pituitary adenomas are neoplasms of the pituitary adenohypophyseal cell lineage and include functioning tumors, characterized by the secretion of pituitary hormones, and nonfunctioning tumors. Clinically evident pituitary adenomas occur in approximately 1 in 1100 persons. Observations Pituitary adenomas are classified as either macroadenomas (≥10 mm) (48% of tumors) or microadenomas (<10 mm). Macroadenomas may cause mass effect, such as visual field defects, headache, and/or hypopituitarism, which occur in about 18% to 78%, 17% to 75%, and 34% to 89% of patients, respectively. Thirty percent of pituitary adenomas are nonfunctioning adenomas, which do not produce hormones. Functioning tumors are those that produce an excess of normally produced hormones and include prolactinomas, somatotropinomas, corticotropinomas, and thyrotropinomas, which produce prolactin, growth hormone, corticotropin, and thyrotropin, respectively. Approximately 53% of pituitary adenomas are prolactinomas, which can cause hypogonadism, infertility, and/or galactorrhea. Twelve percent are somatotropinomas, which cause acromegaly in adults and gigantism in children, and 4% are corticotropinomas, which secrete corticotropin autonomously, resulting in hypercortisolemia and Cushing disease. All patients with pituitary tumors require endocrine evaluation for hormone hypersecretion. Patients with macroadenomas additionally require evaluation for hypopituitarism, and patients with tumors compressing the optic chiasm should be referred to an ophthalmologist for formal visual field testing. For those requiring treatment, first-line therapy is usually transsphenoidal pituitary surgery, except for prolactinomas, for which medical therapy, either bromocriptine or cabergoline, is usually first line. Conclusions and Relevance Clinically manifest pituitary adenomas affect approximately 1 in 1100 people and can be complicated by syndromes of hormone excess as well as visual field defects and hypopituitarism from mass effect in larger tumors. First-line therapy for prolactinomas consists of bromocriptine or cabergoline, and transsphenoidal pituitary surgery is first-line therapy for other pituitary adenomas requiring treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Karen K Miller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Martino M, Aboud N, Lucchetti B, Salvio G, Arnaldi G. An evaluation of pharmacological options for Cushing's disease: what are the state-of-the-art options? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:557-576. [PMID: 36927238 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2192349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Untreated Cushing's syndrome (CS) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Cortisol normalization is a key goal to treatment. Pituitary surgery remains the first-line approach for Cushing's disease, but sometimes it is impracticable, unsuccessful, or complicated by recurrence. Medical therapy has been historically considered a palliative. However, in the latest years, interest on this topic has grown due to both the availability of new drugs and the reevaluation of the old, commonly used drugs in clinical practice. AREAS COVERED In this article, we will discuss the current options and future directions of medical therapy for CS, aiming at fitting best patients' features. An extensive literature search regarding already approved and investigational principles was conducted (PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov. Available drugs include inhibitors of ACTH secretion, steroidogenesis inhibitors, and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists; drugs acting at different levels can be also combined in uncontrolled patients. EXPERT OPINION Since there is still no standardized pharmacological approach and the superiority of one drug over another has not been established yet in the absence of comparative studies, each time clinicians' choices should be patient-tailored. Age, gender, tumor features, severity of hypercortisolism, comorbidities/complications, rapidity of action, side effects, drug-drug interactions, contraindications, availability, patients' preferences, and costs should be all considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Martino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Nairus Aboud
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Beatrice Lucchetti
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO). Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy
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Vokoun CW, Murphy MC, Reynolds KL, Haines MS. Case 1-2023: A 49-Year-Old Man with Hypokalemia and Paranoia. N Engl J Med 2023; 388:165-175. [PMID: 36630625 DOI: 10.1056/nejmcpc2211366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chad W Vokoun
- From the Department of Hospital Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (C.W.V.); and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Mark C Murphy
- From the Department of Hospital Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (C.W.V.); and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Kerry L Reynolds
- From the Department of Hospital Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (C.W.V.); and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
| | - Melanie S Haines
- From the Department of Hospital Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha (C.W.V.); and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Departments of Radiology (M.C.M.) and Medicine (K.L.R., M.S.H.), Harvard Medical School - both in Boston
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12
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Mehlich A, Bolanowski M, Mehlich D, Witek P. Medical treatment of Cushing's disease with concurrent diabetes mellitus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1174119. [PMID: 37139336 PMCID: PMC10150952 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1174119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a severe endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolaemia secondary to an overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by a pituitary adenoma. Cortisol excess impairs normal glucose homeostasis through many pathophysiological mechanisms. The varying degrees of glucose intolerance, including impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are commonly observed in patients with CD and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Although definitive surgical treatment of ACTH-secreting tumors remains the most effective therapy to control both cortisol levels and glucose metabolism, nearly one-third of patients present with persistent or recurrent disease and require additional treatments. In recent years, several medical therapies demonstrated prominent clinical efficacy in the management of patients with CD for whom surgery was non-curative or for those who are ineligible to undergo surgical treatment. Cortisol-lowering medications may have different effects on glucose metabolism, partially independent of their role in normalizing hypercortisolaemia. The expanding therapeutic landscape offers new opportunities for the tailored therapy of patients with CD who present with glucose intolerance or DM, however, additional clinical studies are needed to determine the optimal management strategies. In this article, we discuss the pathophysiology of impaired glucose metabolism caused by cortisol excess and review the clinical efficacy of medical therapies of CD, with particular emphasis on their effects on glucose homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mehlich
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Bolanowski
- Chair and Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Isotope Treatment, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dawid Mehlich
- Laboratory of Molecular OncoSignalling, International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol) Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Doctoral School of Medical University of Warsaw, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Przemysław Witek
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- *Correspondence: Przemysław Witek,
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Fleseriu M, Auchus RJ, Greenman Y, Zacharieva S, Geer EB, Salvatori R, Pivonello R, Feldt-Rasmussen U, Kennedy L, Buchfelder M, Biller BMK, Cohen F, Heaney AP. Levoketoconazole treatment in endogenous Cushing's syndrome: extended evaluation of clinical, biochemical, and radiologic outcomes. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:859-871. [PMID: 36251618 PMCID: PMC9716395 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This extended evaluation (EE) of the SONICS study assessed the effects of levoketoconazole for an additional 6 months following open-label, 6-month maintenance treatment in endogenous Cushing's syndrome. DESIGN/METHODS SONICS included dose-titration (150-600 mg BID), 6-month maintenance, and 6-month EE phases. Exploratory efficacy assessments were performed at months 9 and 12 (relative to the start of maintenance). For pituitary MRI in patients with Cushing's disease, a threshold of ≥2 mm denoted change from baseline in the largest tumor diameter. RESULTS Sixty patients entered EE at month 6; 61% (33/54 with data) exhibited normal mean urinary free cortisol (mUFC). At months 9 and 12, respectively, 55% (27/49) and 41% (18/44) of patients with data had normal mUFC. Mean fasting glucose, total and LDL-cholesterol, body weight, BMI, abdominal girth, hirsutism, CushingQoL, and Beck Depression Inventory-II scores improved from the study baseline at months 9 and 12. Forty-six patients completed month 12; four (6.7%) discontinued during EE due to adverse events. The most common adverse events in EE were arthralgia, headache, hypokalemia, and QT prolongation (6.7% each). No patient experienced alanine aminotransferase or aspartate aminotransferase >3× upper limit of normal, Fridericia-corrected QT interval >460 ms, or adrenal insufficiency during EE. Of 31 patients with tumor measurements at baseline and month 12 or follow-up, the largest tumor diameter was stable in 27 (87%) patients, decreased in one, and increased in three (largest increase 4 mm). CONCLUSION In the first long-term levoketoconazole study, continued treatment through a 12-month maintenance period sustained the early clinical and biochemical benefits in most patients completing EE, without new adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fleseriu
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Correspondence should be addressed to M Fleseriu;
| | | | | | | | - Eliza B Geer
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anthony P Heaney
- University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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14
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Management of Nelson’s Syndrome. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58111580. [DOI: 10.3390/medicina58111580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Nelson’s syndrome is a potentially severe condition that may develop in patients with Cushing’s disease treated with bilateral adrenalectomy. Its management can be challenging. Pituitary surgery followed or not by radiotherapy offers the most optimal tumour control, whilst pituitary irradiation alone needs to be considered in cases requiring intervention and are poor surgical candidates. Observation is an option for patients with small lesions, not causing mass effects to vital adjacent structures but close follow-up is required for a timely detection of corticotroph tumour progression and for further treatment if required. To date, no medical therapy has been consistently proven to be effective in Nelson’s syndrome. Pharmacotherapy, however, should be considered when other management approaches have failed. A subset of patients with Nelson’s syndrome may develop further tumour growth after primary treatment, and, in some cases, a truly aggressive tumour behaviour can be demonstrated. In the absence of evidence-based guidance, the management of these cases is individualized and tailored to previously offered treatments. Temozolomide has been used in patients with aggressive Nelson’s with no consistent results. Development of tumour-targeted therapeutic agents are an unmet need for the management of aggressive cases of Nelson’s syndrome.
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Corsello A, Ramunno V, Locantore P, Pacini G, Rossi ED, Torino F, Pontecorvi A, De Crea C, Paragliola RM, Raffaelli M, Corsello SM. Medullary Thyroid Cancer with Ectopic Cushing's Syndrome: A Case Report and Systematic Review of Detailed Cases from the Literature. Thyroid 2022; 32:1281-1298. [PMID: 35833793 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a neuroendocrine tumor arising from parafollicular C-cells of the thyroid gland that, in rare cases, can cause a paraneoplastic ectopic Cushing's syndrome (ECS). The development of Cushing's syndrome (CS) in MTC patients is generally associated with advanced disease and poor prognosis. Summary: We described a case of severe CS due to MTC in a young male. We performed a systematic review to identify cases of ECS due to MTC. We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for publications between database inception and February 2022 and we collected the patient characteristics, disease presentation, employed treatment strategies, and disease outcomes. In addition to our patient, we identified 96 cases of ECS due to MTC reported in literature. Mean age at diagnosis was 44.4 years (range 10-84), and there was a male predominance (male:female [M:F] = 1.8:1). Most patients (51%) presented with metastatic disease at diagnosis and showed severe hypercortisolism. Seventeen patients developed distant metastasis and hypercortisolism during follow-up. Interestingly, in 48% of patients, the diagnosis of CS followed the diagnosis of MTC with a median time of 48 months but, among patients in whom the diagnosis was concomitant (38%), symptoms due to hypercortisolism were frequently the reason for seeking medical advice. Pathology results showed evidence of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) positive cells in 76% of patients in whom they were tested. The management of hypercortisolism was challenging in most patients with 48% requiring, eventually, definitive treatment with bilateral adrenalectomy (BLA). Recently, some limited evidence has emerged regarding tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) treatment for hypercortisolism in patients with ECS due to MTC. Despite limited information on survival, prognosis was generally poor and the main causes of death were either complications of CS or disease progression. Conclusions: Despite its rarity, MTC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ECS. Management of hypercortisolism is a key factor to improve the patient's symptoms but it is often challenging and BLA is frequently required. Further studies are needed for investigating the role of TKIs in patients with MTC with ECS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Corsello
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittoria Ramunno
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Pietro Locantore
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pacini
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Esther Diana Rossi
- Division of Anatomic Pathology and Histology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Torino
- Medical Oncology, Department of Systems Medicine, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmela De Crea
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Paragliola
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Raffaelli
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Maria Corsello
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Universitario di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Department of Medicine, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
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Bonnet-Serrano F, Poirier J, Vaczlavik A, Laguillier-Morizot C, Blanchet B, Baron S, Guignat L, Bessiene L, Bricaire L, Groussin L, Assié G, Guibourdenche J, Bertherat J. Differences in the spectrum of steroidogenic enzyme inhibition between Osilodrostat and Metyrapone in ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome patients. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:315-322. [PMID: 35699971 DOI: 10.1530/eje-22-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Osilodrostat is a new 11β-hydroxylase inhibitor with a mode of action analogous to Metyrapone. The objective of this study was to compare steroidogenic profiles in patients treated with either Osilodrostat or Metyrapone for adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)-dependent Cushing's syndrome (CS). METHODS Patients followed up at Cochin hospital Endocrinology department between March 2019 and December 2021 for an ACTH-dependent CS, controlled by either Osilodrostat or Metyrapone, were included. A serum profile of five steroids (cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and testosterone) was determined using UPLC- tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). RESULTS Nineteen patients treated with Osilodrostat, eight patients treated with Metyrapone and six patients treated with consecutive Metyrapone then Osilodrostat were included. Hypocortisolism (basal cortisol <100 nmol/L) was found in 48% of patients treated with Osilodrostat and 7% of patients treated with Metyrapone. 11-deoxycortisol and androstenedione levels were higher in patients treated with Metyrapone (80.9 (2.2-688.4) and 14.9 (2.5-54.3) nmol/L, respectively) than in patients treated with Osilodrostat (10.3 (0.5-71.9) and 4.0 (0.3-13.3) nmol/L) (P = 0.0009 and P = 0.0005). Testosterone level in women was also higher in Metyrapone group (3.3 (0.93-4.82) nmol/L vs 1.31(0.13-5.09) nmol/L, P = 0.0146). CYP11B1 activity (11-deoxycortisol/cortisol) was not significantly different between the two groups. CYP21A2 activity (17OHprogesterone/11-deoxycortisol) and CYP17A1 activity (17OHprogesterone/androstenedione) were significantly decreased in Osilodrostat group (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION In patients with ACTH-dependent CS, the use of CYP11B1 inhibitors in routine care suggests that Osilodrostat has a less specific effect on the inhibition of steroidogenic enzymes than Metyrapone. This might explain a smaller increase in 11-deoxycortisol and androgen levels in patients treated with Osilodrostat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidéline Bonnet-Serrano
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'Hormonologie - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jonathan Poirier
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Anna Vaczlavik
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Christelle Laguillier-Morizot
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'Hormonologie - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
- Faculté de Pharmacie Paris Centre, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Benoît Blanchet
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Department of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacochemistry, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
- UMR8038 CNRS, U1268 INSERM, Faculty of Pharmacy, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, University of Paris, Paris, France
| | - Stéphanie Baron
- Hopital Europeen Georges Pompidou, Physiology, Paris, France
| | - Laurence Guignat
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Laura Bessiene
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Léopoldine Bricaire
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Lionel Groussin
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Assié
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
| | - Jean Guibourdenche
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, UF d'Hormonologie - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
- Faculté de Pharmacie Paris Centre, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Bertherat
- Institut Cochin, Inserm U1016-CNRS UMR8104-Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies Métaboliques - Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Centre, Paris, France
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Regazzo D, Mondin A, Scaroni C, Occhi G, Barbot M. The Role of Glucocorticoid Receptor in the Pathophysiology of Pituitary Corticotroph Adenomas. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126469. [PMID: 35742910 PMCID: PMC9224504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary adenomas are rare tumors characterized by autonomous ACTH secretion with a consequent increase in circulating cortisol levels. The resulting clinical picture is called Cushing’s disease (CD), a severe condition burdened with high morbidity and mortality. Apart from increased cortisol levels, CD patients exhibit a partial resistance to the negative glucocorticoid (GC) feedback, which is of paramount clinical utility, as the lack of suppression after dexamethasone administration is one of the mainstays for the differential diagnosis of CD. Since the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is the main regulator of negative feedback of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in normal conditions, its implication in the pathophysiology of ACTH-secreting pituitary tumors is highly plausible. In this paper, we review GR function and structure and the mechanisms of GC resistance in ACTH-secreting pituitary tumors and assess the effects of the available medical therapies targeting GR on tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Regazzo
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Alessandro Mondin
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Carla Scaroni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.); (C.S.)
| | - Gianluca Occhi
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy;
| | - Mattia Barbot
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.); (C.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Sabahi M, Shahbazi T, Maroufi SF, Vidal K, Recinos PF, Kshettry VR, Roser F, Adada B, Borghei-Razavi H. MRI-Negative Cushing's Disease: A Review on Therapeutic Management. World Neurosurg 2022; 162:126-137.e1. [PMID: 35338018 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.03.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we review the literature regarding patients with Cushing's disease (CD) with negative or inconclusive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). METHODS A quantitative systematic review was performed. Article selection was performed by searching MEDLINE (using PubMed), EMBASE, and Cochrane electronic bibliographic databases. RESULTS 28 articles described surgical management of inconclusive MRI or MRI-negative CD. A total of 858 patients underwent surgery for their Cushing adenoma. Different types of surgery, including endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (EETS) (190 cases) and microscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (METS) (488 cases), were performed on patients with MRI-negative CD. 7 studies, which included 164 patients, did not describe any surgery. EETS and METS are conducted to achieve selective adenomectomy (231 cases), partial adenomectomy (80 cases), total adenomectomy (13 cases), hemihypophysectomy (15 cases), or enlarged adenomectomy (48 cases). Based on available data on these studies, the remission rate, persistence rate, and recurrence rate after different types of surgeries on patients with MRI-negative CD were 72.97%, 27.03%, and 12.05%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between EETS and METS in the subanalysis regarding recurrence rate, remission rate, and persistence rate. However, the recurrence rate in the METS group is almost 3 times higher than in the EETS group. CONCLUSIONS Surgery has a good prognosis in patients with MRI-negative CD in terms of remission, and EETS has a lower rate of disease recurrence than METS; therefore, EETS seems to be the potential recommended treatment technique, while to confirm the therapeutic method of choice, further investigations should be done.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadmahdi Sabahi
- Neurosurgery Research Group (NRG), Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran; Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taha Shahbazi
- Neurosurgery Research Group (NRG), Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran; Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Farzad Maroufi
- Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Sina Trauma and Surgery Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kevin Vidal
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Pauline Braathen Neurological Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Florida, USA
| | - Pablo F Recinos
- Department of Neurological Surgery and Rosa Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Varun R Kshettry
- Department of Neurological Surgery and Rosa Ella Burkhardt Brain Tumor and Neuro-Oncology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Florian Roser
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Badih Adada
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Pauline Braathen Neurological Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Florida, USA
| | - Hamid Borghei-Razavi
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Pauline Braathen Neurological Center, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Florida, USA.
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Aydin B, Yildirim E, Erdogan O, Arga KY, Yilmaz BK, Bozkurt SU, Bayrakli F, Turanli B. Past, Present, and Future of Therapies for Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors: Need for Omics and Drug Repositioning Guidance. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2022; 26:115-129. [PMID: 35172108 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Innovation roadmaps are important, because they encourage the actors in an innovation ecosystem to creatively imagine multiple possible science future(s), while anticipating the prospects and challenges on the innovation trajectory. In this overarching context, this expert review highlights the present unmet need for therapeutic innovations for pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs), also known as pituitary adenomas. Although there are many drugs used in practice to treat PitNETs, many of these drugs can have negative side effects and show highly variable outcomes in terms of overall recovery. Building innovation roadmaps for PitNETs' treatments can allow incorporation of systems biology approaches to bring about insights at multiple levels of cell biology, from genes to proteins to metabolites. Using the systems biology techniques, it will then be possible to offer potential therapeutic strategies for the convergence of preventive approaches and patient-centered disease treatment. Here, we first provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular subtypes of PitNETs and therapeutics for these tumors from the past to the present. We then discuss examples of clinical trials and drug repositioning studies and how multi-omics studies can help in discovery and rational development of new therapeutics for PitNETs. Finally, this expert review offers new public health and personalized medicine approaches on cases that are refractory to conventional treatment or recur despite currently used surgical and/or drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busra Aydin
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Yildirim
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Onur Erdogan
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kazim Yalcin Arga
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Genetic and Metabolic Diseases Research and Investigation Center, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betul Karademir Yilmaz
- Genetic and Metabolic Diseases Research and Investigation Center, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Biochemistry and School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Suheyla Uyar Bozkurt
- Department of Medical Pathology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatih Bayrakli
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Institute of Neurological Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Beste Turanli
- Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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20
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Martino M, Aboud N, Lucchetti B, Salvio G, Arnaldi G. Osilodrostat oral tablets for adults with Cushing's disease. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:99-109. [PMID: 35220871 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2044789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare, multi-systemic condition resulting from chronic glucocorticoid excess sustained by a pituitary adenoma (Cushing's disease, CD), an adrenal adenoma or, less frequently, a neuroendocrine tumor. The optimal first-line option is surgery, but when it is contraindicated/refused, or in case of severe, life-threatening disease, medical treatment is a first-line choice. Osilodrostat (LCI699, Isturisa®) is a new, orally active adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitor currently approved by the FDA and EMA for the treatment of endogenous CS. AREAS COVERED We illustrate the pharmacologic profile of osilodrostat and summarize the efficacy and safety of osilodrostat from the first phase I studies to the most recent evidence. EXPERT OPINION Osilodrostat acts as a potent, reversible inhibitor of 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11B1) and 18-hydroxylase (or aldosterone synthase, CYP11B2), counteracting both gluco- and mineralocorticoid production. According to the results of the LINC1, LINC2, and LINC3 studies and the preliminary findings of LINC4, osilodrostat offers an excellent efficacy in controlling hypercortisolism with a good tolerability. The non-negligible risk of adrenal insufficiency/steroid withdrawal symptoms, hypokalemia, and hyperandrogenism disorders, and the possibility, albeit rare, of pituitary tumor enlargement, require further confirmation and careful monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Martino
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nairus Aboud
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Beatrice Lucchetti
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences (DISCLIMO), Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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21
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Pence A, McGrath M, Lee SL, Raines DE. Pharmacological management of severe Cushing's syndrome: the role of etomidate. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2022; 13:20420188211058583. [PMID: 35186251 PMCID: PMC8848075 DOI: 10.1177/20420188211058583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) is an endocrine disease characterized by excessive adrenocortical steroid production. One of the mainstay pharmacological treatments for CS are steroidogenesis enzyme inhibitors, including the antifungal agent ketoconazole along with metyrapone, mitotane, and aminoglutethimide. Recently, osilodrostat was added to this drug class and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Cushing's Disease. Steroidogenesis enzyme inhibitors inhibit various enzymes along the cortisol biosynthetic pathway and may be used preoperatively to lower cortisol levels and reduce surgical risk associated with tumor resection or postoperatively when surgery and/or radiation therapies are not curative. Because their selectivities for steroidogenic enzymes vary, they may even be administered in combination to achieve relatively rapid control of severe hypercortisolemia. Unfortunately, all currently available inhibitors are accompanied by serious adverse side effects that limit dosing and often result in treatment failures. Although more commonly known as a general anesthetic induction agent, etomidate is another member of the steroidogenesis enzyme inhibitor drug class. It suppresses cortisol production primarily by inhibiting 11β-hydroxylase and is the only inhibitor that may be given parenterally. However, the sedative-hypnotic actions of etomidate limit its use as an acute management option for CS. Thus, some have recommended that it be used only in intensive care settings. In this review, we discuss the initial development of etomidate as an anesthetic agent, its subsequent development as a treatment for CS, and the recent advances in dosing and drug development that dissociate sedative-hypnotic and adrenostatic drug actions to facilitate CS treatment in non-critical care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pence
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan McGrath
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephanie L. Lee
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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22
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Fleseriu M, Auchus R, Bancos I, Ben-Shlomo A, Bertherat J, Biermasz NR, Boguszewski CL, Bronstein MD, Buchfelder M, Carmichael JD, Casanueva FF, Castinetti F, Chanson P, Findling J, Gadelha M, Geer EB, Giustina A, Grossman A, Gurnell M, Ho K, Ioachimescu AG, Kaiser UB, Karavitaki N, Katznelson L, Kelly DF, Lacroix A, McCormack A, Melmed S, Molitch M, Mortini P, Newell-Price J, Nieman L, Pereira AM, Petersenn S, Pivonello R, Raff H, Reincke M, Salvatori R, Scaroni C, Shimon I, Stratakis CA, Swearingen B, Tabarin A, Takahashi Y, Theodoropoulou M, Tsagarakis S, Valassi E, Varlamov EV, Vila G, Wass J, Webb SM, Zatelli MC, Biller BMK. Consensus on diagnosis and management of Cushing's disease: a guideline update. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2021; 9:847-875. [PMID: 34687601 PMCID: PMC8743006 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(21)00235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 94.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's disease requires accurate diagnosis, careful treatment selection, and long-term management to optimise patient outcomes. The Pituitary Society convened a consensus workshop comprising more than 50 academic researchers and clinical experts to discuss the application of recent evidence to clinical practice. In advance of the virtual meeting, data from 2015 to present about screening and diagnosis; surgery, medical, and radiation therapy; and disease-related and treatment-related complications of Cushing's disease summarised in recorded lectures were reviewed by all participants. During the meeting, concise summaries of the recorded lectures were presented, followed by small group breakout discussions. Consensus opinions from each group were collated into a draft document, which was reviewed and approved by all participants. Recommendations regarding use of laboratory tests, imaging, and treatment options are presented, along with algorithms for diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome and management of Cushing's disease. Topics considered most important to address in future research are also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jerome Bertherat
- Université de Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre de Référence Maladies Rares de la Surrénale, Service d'Endocrinologie, Hôpital Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Nienke R Biermasz
- Leiden University Medical Center and European Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo-ERN), Leiden, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - John D Carmichael
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Felipe F Casanueva
- Santiago de Compostela University and Ciber OBN, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Frederic Castinetti
- Aix Marseille Université, Marseille Medical Genetics, INSERM, Marseille, France; Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France; Department of Endocrinology, La Conception Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Chanson
- Université Paris-Saclay, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | | | - Mônica Gadelha
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eliza B Geer
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Ashley Grossman
- University of London, London, UK; University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mark Gurnell
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Center, Cambridge, UK; Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ken Ho
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Niki Karavitaki
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK; Department of Endocrinology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | - André Lacroix
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ann McCormack
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Mark Molitch
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alberto M Pereira
- Leiden University Medical Center and European Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo-ERN), Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Stephan Petersenn
- ENDOC Center for Endocrine Tumors, Hamburg, Germany and University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Hershel Raff
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA; Advocate Aurora Research Institute, Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Martin Reincke
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital of LMU, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ilan Shimon
- Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah-Tikva, Israel
| | | | | | - Antoine Tabarin
- CHU de Bordeaux, Hôpital Haut Lévêque, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Marily Theodoropoulou
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital of LMU, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Elena Valassi
- Endocrinology Unit, Hospital General de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain; Research Center for Pituitary Diseases (CIBERER Unit 747), Hospital Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Greisa Vila
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - John Wass
- Churchill Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Susan M Webb
- Research Center for Pituitary Diseases (CIBERER Unit 747), Hospital Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is the most prevalent cause of endogenous hypercortisolism. CD is responsible for multiple co-morbidities and increased mortality. Accurate and prompt diagnosis and optimal treatment are essential to improve the prognosis of CD. However, the diagnosis of CD is probably one of the most difficult in endocrinology and, therefore, diagnostic workup should be performed in an experienced center. Transsphenoidal surgery performed by an expert surgeon is the only therapeutic option that can offer definitive cure and remains the first-line treatment in most patients. Second-line treatments include pharmacotherapy, pituitary radiotherapy and bilateral adrenalectomy. The second-line therapeutic strategy is complex, must be individualized and performed in a multidisciplinary expert center. Symptomatic treatments of persisting co-morbidities after remission, which are responsible for increased mortality and impaired quality of life is an important part of medical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Ferriere
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital (CHU) of Bordeaux and University of Bordeaux, France
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, University Hospital (CHU) of Bordeaux and University of Bordeaux, France; INSERM U1215, NeuroCentre Magendie, University of Bordeaux, France.
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Yuen KCJ. Osilodrostat: A Review of Recent Clinical Studies and Practical Recommendations for its Use in the Treatment of Cushing Disease. Endocr Pract 2021; 27:956-965. [PMID: 34389514 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cushing disease (CD) is characterized by chronic hypercortisolism caused by an adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma. Surgery remains the first-line treatment option; however, medical therapy is essential if surgery is contraindicated or fails to achieve remission or when recurrence occurs after surgical remission. Osilodrostat (Isturisa), a novel steroidogenic inhibitor, is now approved for the treatment of CD in the United States and Cushing syndrome in Europe. Herein, we review pharmacology and data on the efficacy, safety, and clinical use of osilodrostat and provide guidance on its use in treating patients with CD. METHODS We reviewed the literature and published clinical trial data of osilodrostat use in patients with Cushing syndrome. Detailed information related to the clinical assessment of osilodrostat use, potential drug-to-drug interactions, drug initiation, dose titration, and the monitoring of drug tolerability were discussed. RESULTS Clinical trial data demonstrated that osilodrostat, by virtue of inhibiting 11-β hydroxylase, potently and rapidly decreased the 24-hour urinary free cortisol levels and sustained these reductions, with improved glycemia, blood pressure, body weight, and quality of life as well as lessened depression. Osilodrostat may interact with certain drugs, resulting in QT prolongation, which requires careful assessment of concomitant medications and periodic monitoring using electrocardiogram, respectively. The common adverse effects include adrenal insufficiency, hypokalemia, edema, and hyperandrogenic symptoms, which can be minimized using a slower up-titration dosing regimen. CONCLUSION Osilodrostat is an effective, new treatment option for CD, with positive effects on cardiovascular and quality of life parameters as well as tolerable adverse effects. This article provides a review of the pharmacology of osilodrostat and offers practical recommendations on the use of osilodrostat to treat CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C J Yuen
- Barrow Pituitary Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, Departments of Neuroendocrinology and Neurosurgery, University of Arizona College of Medicine and Creighton School of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona.
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25
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Fleseriu M, Auchus RJ, Pivonello R, Salvatori R, Zacharieva S, Biller BMK. Levoketoconazole: a novel treatment for endogenous Cushing's syndrome. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2021; 16:159-174. [PMID: 34380370 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2021.1945440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare, life-threatening endocrine disorder that is caused by chronic exposure to cortisol overproduction. Levoketoconazole (Recorlev), a 2S, 4R stereoisomer of ketoconazole, is a steroidogenesis inhibitor under investigation for the treatment of CS.Areas covered: This review covers the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of levoketoconazole for the treatment of patients with endogenous CS.Expert opinion: Based on the preclinical and clinical pharmacology findings, levoketoconazole appears to be the relevant enantiomer of ketoconazole for inhibition of steroidogenesis, with more potent inhibition of both cortisol and androgen synthesis relative to ketoconazole racemate and the 2R, 4S stereoisomer dextroketoconazole. Results from the phase III SONICS study showed that levoketoconazole was effective in normalizing cortisol levels and improving biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in a significant percentage of patients. In addition, treatment with levoketoconazole showed improvements in subjective clinical assessments of clinician-rated CS clinical signs and symptoms, patient-reported quality of life, and depression symptom severity. Testosterone levels decreased significantly in women. Levoketoconazole had an acceptable safety profile with no unexpected safety signals. The favorable pharmacology, efficacy, and safety profile of levoketoconazole supports its use as medical therapy for CS, if approved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Fleseriu
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Neurological Surgery, and Pituitary Center, Portland, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- University of Michigan Medical School, Department of Internal Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Università Federico II Di Napoli, Dipartimento Di Medicina Clinica E Chirurgia, Sezione Di Endocrinologia, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Salvatori
- Johns Hopkins University, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, and Pituitary Center, Baltimore, USA
| | - Sabina Zacharieva
- Medical University-Sofia, Department of Endocrinology, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Beverly M K Biller
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Boston, USA
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Castinetti F, Nieman LK, Reincke M, Newell-Price J. Approach to the Patient Treated with Steroidogenesis Inhibitors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:2114-2123. [PMID: 33675650 PMCID: PMC8427736 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Steroidogenesis inhibitors can be given to control the hypercortisolism of Cushing's syndrome in various situations: when surgery has been unsuccessful or not possible; in metastatic adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) or cortisol-secreting tumors; when waiting for the maximal efficacy of radiation techniques; for rapid treatment of severe hypercortisolism in patients with occult ACTH-producing tumors; or as a presurgical treatment in patients with severe comorbidities. Whilst biochemical "control" can be achieved in more than 50% of cases, daily management of such drugs can be challenging. Indeed, with a "dose-titration" or a "block and replace" approach, defining eucortisolism is usually difficult, requiring the measurement of several biological markers. Moreover, each drug has its own side effects, which must be monitored closely. The aim of this "approach to the patient" is to shed light on the management of hypercortisolism with 4 steroidogenesis inhibitors (ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, metyrapone, osilodrostat) to help endocrinologists dealing with patients with Cushing's syndrome. Various points will be discussed, such as initial dose of treatment, dose schedule, monitoring of efficacy, and side effects of monotherapy. The combination of steroidogenesis inhibitors will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Castinetti
- Aix Marseille University, Marseille Medical Genetics, INSERM U1251 and Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Marseille, La Conception Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Marseille 13005, France
- Correspondence: Frederic Castinetti, MD, PhD, Department of Endocrinology, La Conception Hospital, 147 Boulevard Baille, 13385 Marseille Cedex 05, France. E-mail:
| | - Lynnette K Nieman
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich 80336, Germany
| | - John Newell-Price
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
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27
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Fontaine-Sylvestre C, Létourneau-Guillon L, Moumdjian RA, Berthelet F, Lacroix A. Corticotroph tumor progression during long-term therapy with osilodrostat in a patient with persistent Cushing's disease. Pituitary 2021; 24:207-215. [PMID: 33074401 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-020-01097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Corticotroph tumor progression (CTP) or Nelson's syndrome (NS) can occur in patients with Cushing's disease (CD) following bilateral adrenalectomy. It has rarely been observed in patients treated with long-term medical therapy for persistent CD. Osilodrostat (LCI699) is a new steroidogenesis inhibitor of 11β-hydroxylase (CYP11β1) that induced remission of hypercortisolism in 86% of patients with refractory CD in the randomized placebo-controlled trial LINC-3 (NCT02180217). METHODS A 40-year-old woman with persistent CD following transsphenoidal surgery was treated with osilodrostat in the LINC-3 trial and was followed with regular hormonal assessments and imaging of residual corticotroph tumor. RESULTS Under oral therapy with osilodrostat 10 mg twice daily, urinary free cortisol (UFC) normalized and clinical signs of CD regressed during therapy. However after 4 years of treatment, ACTH levels increased from 73 to 500 pmol/L and corticotroph tumor size increased rapidly from 3 to 14 mm, while UFCs remained well controlled. Surgical resection of an atypical tumor with weak ACTH expression and increased proliferative index (Ki-67 ≥ 8%) resulted in current remission but will require close follow-up. CONCLUSION This case highlights the importance of monitoring ACTH and corticotroph tumor size in patients with persistent CD, either under effective treatment with steroidogenesis inhibitors or after bilateral adrenalectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Fontaine-Sylvestre
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, 900 Saint-Denis Street, Montréal, Québec, H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Laurent Létourneau-Guillon
- Neuroradiology Division, Department of Radiology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert A Moumdjian
- Neurosurgery Division, Department of Surgery, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - France Berthelet
- Neuropathology Division, Department of Pathology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - André Lacroix
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Université de Montréal, 900 Saint-Denis Street, Montréal, Québec, H2X 0A9, Canada.
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Wilson JB, Zopey M, Augustine J, Schaffer R, Chiang M, Friedman TC. High Prevalence of Adrenal Remnant Tissue in Patients Undergoing Bilateral Adrenalectomy for Cushing's Disease. Horm Metab Res 2021; 53:161-168. [PMID: 33091942 PMCID: PMC8570053 DOI: 10.1055/a-1253-2854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Bilateral adrenalectomy (BLA) is a treatment option for patients with Cushing's Disease (CD) if transsphenoidal pituitary surgery fails or is not a therapeutic option. For most patients, BLA eliminates endogenous glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid production, but for a small number of patients, endogenous secretion of adrenal hormones from adrenal tissue continues or recurs, leading to signs and symptoms of hypercortisolism. If adrenal tissue is confined to the adrenal bed, it is considered adrenal remnant tissue, while if it is outside the adrenal bed, it is considered adrenal rest tissue. We retrospectively evaluated morning serum cortisol, nighttime serum cortisol, nighttime salivary cortisol, and 24-h urine free cortisol on at least three occasions in 10 patients suspected of having endogenous cortisol production. Imaging of adrenal remnant tissue was also reviewed. Ten of 51 patients who underwent BLA during this time period had adrenal remnant/rest tissue marked by detectable endogenous glucocorticoid production; 9 of the 10 patients had signs and symptoms of hypercortisolism. Localization and treatment proved difficult. We conclude that the incidence of adrenal remnant/rest tissue in those undergoing BLA following unsuccessful pituitary surgery was 12% although there may have been a selection bias affecting this prevalence. The first indication of remnant tissue occurrence is a reduction in glucocorticoid replacement with symptoms of hypercortisolism. If this occurs, endogenous cortisol production should be tested for by cortisol measurements using a highly specific cortisol assay while the patient is taking dexamethasone or no glucocorticoid replacement. Endocrinologists need to monitor the development of both adrenal remnant tissue and Nelson's syndrome following BLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian B. Wilson
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, 90059, USA
| | - Mohan Zopey
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, 90059, USA
| | - Jaimie Augustine
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, 90059, USA
| | - Randolph Schaffer
- Department of Surgery, Scripps Green Hospital, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Manfred Chiang
- Brookfield Surgical Associates, Brookfield, WI 53005, USA
| | - Theodore C. Friedman
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, 90059, USA
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Exploring gene knockout strategies to identify potential drug targets using genome-scale metabolic models. Sci Rep 2021; 11:213. [PMID: 33420254 PMCID: PMC7794450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80561-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on new cancer drugs is performed either through gene knockout studies or phenotypic screening of drugs in cancer cell-lines. Both of these approaches are costly and time-consuming. Computational framework, e.g., genome-scale metabolic models (GSMMs), could be a good alternative to find potential drug targets. The present study aims to investigate the applicability of gene knockout strategies to be used as the finding of drug targets using GSMMs. We performed single-gene knockout studies on existing GSMMs of the NCI-60 cell-lines obtained from 9 tissue types. The metabolic genes responsible for the growth of cancerous cells were identified and then ranked based on their cellular growth reduction. The possible growth reduction mechanisms, which matches with the gene knockout results, were described. Gene ranking was used to identify potential drug targets, which reduce the growth rate of cancer cells but not of the normal cells. The gene ranking results were also compared with existing shRNA screening data. The rank-correlation results for most of the cell-lines were not satisfactory for a single-gene knockout, but it played a significant role in deciding the activity of drug against cell proliferation, whereas multiple gene knockout analysis gave better correlation results. We validated our theoretical results experimentally and showed that the drugs mitotane and myxothiazol can inhibit the growth of at least four cell-lines of NCI-60 database.
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30
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Varlamov EV, Han AJ, Fleseriu M. Updates in adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors for Cushing's syndrome - A practical guide. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101490. [PMID: 33707082 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Medical therapy is essential in the management of patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) when curative surgery has failed, surgery is not feasible, when awaiting radiation effect, and in recurrent cases of CS. Steroidogenesis inhibitors have a rapid onset of action and are effective in reducing hypercortisolism, however, adverse effects, including adrenal insufficiency require very close patient monitoring. Osilodrostat is the only steroidogenesis inhibitor to have been assessed in prospective randomized controlled trials and approved for Cushing's disease (CD) by the US Food and Drug Administration and for CS by the European Medical Agency (EMA). Osilodrostat has been shown to be highly effective at maintaining normal urinary free cortisol in patients with CD. Drugs such as metyrapone, ketoconazole (both EMA approved), and etomidate lack prospective evaluation(s). There is, however, considerable clinical experience and retrospective data that show a very wide efficacy range in treating patients with CS. In the absence of head-to-head comparative clinical trials, therapy choice is determined by the specific clinical setting, risk of adverse events, cost, availability, and other factors. In this review practical points to help clinicians who are managing patients with CS being treated with steroidogenesis inhibitors are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena V Varlamov
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition) and Neurological Surgery, and Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code CH8N, 3303 South Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Ashley J Han
- School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Pk. Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Nutrition) and Neurological Surgery, and Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail Code CH8N, 3303 South Bond Avenue, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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31
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Abstract
CONTEXT Endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS) is characterized by excess cortisol secretion, which is driven by tumorous secretion of corticotropin in the majority of patients. Untreated, CS results in substantial morbidity and mortality. Tumor-directed surgery is generally the first-line therapy for CS. However, hypercortisolism may persist or recur postoperatively; in other cases, the underlying tumor may not be resectable or its location may not be known. Yet other patients may be acutely ill and require stabilization before definitive surgery. In all these cases, additional interventions are needed, including adrenally directed medical therapies. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Electronic literature searches were performed to identify studies pertaining to adrenally acting agents used for CS. Data were abstracted and used to compile this review article. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Adrenally directed medical therapies inhibit one or several enzymes involved in adrenal steroidogenesis. Several adrenally acting medical therapies for CS are currently available, including ketoconazole, metyrapone, osilodrostat, mitotane, and etomidate. Additional agents are under investigation. Drugs differ with regards to details of their mechanism of action, time course of pharmacologic effect, safety and tolerability, potential for drug-drug interactions, and route of administration. All agents require careful dose titration and patient monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness, while avoiding hypoadrenalism. CONCLUSIONS These medications have an important role in the management of CS, particularly among patients with persistent or recurrent hypercortisolism postoperatively or those who cannot undergo tumor-directed surgery. Use of these drugs mandates adequate patient instruction and close monitoring to ensure treatment goals are being met while untoward adverse effects are minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit and Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Fischer CP, Romero LM. The effects of daily mitotane or diazepam treatment on the formation of chronic stress symptoms in newly captured wild house sparrows. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa118. [PMID: 34970435 PMCID: PMC7771575 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Wild animals brought into captivity frequently experience chronic stress and typically need a period of time to adjust to the conditions of captivity (restraint, artificial lighting, altered diet, human presence, etc.), to which they may never fully acclimate. Changes in mass, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and heart rate parameters have been observed over the first week in newly captive house sparrows (Passer domesticus). In this study, we tested the effects of two drugs, diazepam and mitotane, in preventing the chronic stress symptoms caused by captivity, compared with oil-injected control animals. Diazepam is an anxiolytic that is widely prescribed in humans and other animals and has been shown in some cases to reduce physiological stress. Mitotane is an agent that causes chemical adrenalectomy, reducing the body's capacity to produce glucocorticoid hormones. Our mitotane treatment did not cause the expected change in corticosterone concentrations. Baseline corticosterone was higher after a week in captivity regardless of the treatment group, while stress-induced corticosterone did not significantly increase above baseline after a week in captivity in any treatment group. However, mitotane treatment did have some physiological effects, as it reduced the resting heart rate and the duration of the heart rate response to a sudden noise. It also prevented the increase in nighttime activity that we observed in control animals. There was no effect of diazepam on corticosterone, resting heart rate, activity or heart rate response to a sudden noise, and no effect of either treatment on the sympathetic vs parasympathetic control of the resting heart rate. Together, these data suggest that mitotane, but not diazepam, can have a modest impact on helping house sparrows adapt to captive conditions. Easing the transition to captivity will likely make conservation efforts, such as initiating captive breeding programs, more successful.
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Paragliola RM, Corsello A, Locantore P, Papi G, Pontecorvi A, Corsello SM. Medical Approaches in Adrenocortical Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8120551. [PMID: 33260476 PMCID: PMC7760807 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8120551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) represents one of the most aggressive endocrine tumors. In spite of a correct therapeutic strategy based on a multidisciplinary approach between endocrinologist, surgeon and oncologist, the prognosis is often poor. Surgery is the mainstay treatment in ACC. Mitotane, a dichloro-diphenyl-trichloro-ethane derivate, represents the main medical treatment of ACC in consideration of its adrenocytolitic activity and it is mainly employed as adjuvant treatment after complete surgical resection and for the treatment of advanced ACC. However, the use of mitotane as adjuvant therapy is still controversial, also in consideration of the retrospective nature of several studies. The recurrence of disease is frequent, especially in advanced disease at the diagnosis. Therefore, in these contexts, conventional chemotherapy must be considered in association with mitotane, being the combination etoposide, doxorubicin and cisplatin (EDP) the standard of care in this setting. A more modern therapeutic approach, based on the need of a salvage therapy for advanced ACC that progresses through first-line EDP, is focused on molecular-targeted therapies. However, robust clinical trials are necessary to assess the real efficacy of these treatments.
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Capatina C, Hinojosa-Amaya JM, Poiana C, Fleseriu M. Management of patients with persistent or recurrent Cushing's disease after initial pituitary surgery. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2020; 15:321-339. [PMID: 32813595 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2020.1802243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment options for persistent and recurrent Cushing's disease (CD) include an individualized approach for repeat surgery, medical treatment, radiation therapy (RT), and bilateral adrenalectomy (BLA). AREAS COVERED In this expert opinion perspective, the authors review the latest treatment(s) for persistent/recurrent CD. A PubMed search was undertaken (English articles through May 2020) and relevant articles discussed. Repeat pituitary surgery should be considered in most patients with proven hypercortisolism; there is potential for cure with low risk of major complications. Medical therapy is valuable either alone, while awaiting the effects of RT, or in preparation for BLA. Medical therapy includes steroidogenesis inhibitors, agents that act at the pituitary or glucocorticoid receptor level, and novel agents in development. Radiation therapy has been used successfully to treat CD, but hypopituitarism risk and delayed efficacy (improved with radiosurgery) are major drawbacks. Laparoscopic BLA is safe and effective in patients with severe, difficult-to-manage hypercortisolism, but long-term follow-up is required as corticotroph tumor progression can develop. EXPERT OPINION Treatment of persistent/recurrent CD is challenging. Most patients require >1 therapy to achieve long-lasting remission. There is currently no ideal single treatment option that provides high and rapid efficacy, low adverse effects, and preserves normal pituitary-adrenal axis function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Capatina
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology , Bucharest, Romania
| | - José Miguel Hinojosa-Amaya
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon, USA
- Endocrinology Division, Department of Medicine, Hospital Universitario Dr. José E. González, Universidad Autónoma De Nuevo León , Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Catalina Poiana
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology , Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Fleseriu
- Departments of Medicine (Endocrinology) and Neurological Surgery, and Northwest Pituitary Center, Oregon Health & Science University , Portland, Oregon, USA
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Abstract
Medical therapy has an adjunctive role in management of Cushing disease. Medical therapy is recommended for patients who received pituitary radiotherapy and are awaiting its salutary effects. Medications are used preoperatively to stabilize the condition of seriously ill patients before surgery. Medical therapy is used to control hypercortisolism in patients with uncertain tumor location. Medical therapies available for management of patients with Cushing disease include steroidogenesis inhibitors, centrally acting agents, and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists. All agents require careful monitoring to optimize clinical effectiveness and manage adverse effects. Novel agents in development may expand the armamentarium for management of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Blossom Street, Suite 140, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Beverly M K Biller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Neuroendocrine and Pituitary Tumor Clinical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 100 Blossom Street, Suite 140, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Albani A, Theodoropoulou M. Persistent Cushing's Disease after Transsphenoidal Surgery: Challenges and Solutions. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2020; 129:208-215. [PMID: 32838436 DOI: 10.1055/a-1220-6056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Transsphenoidal surgery remains the primary treatment for Cushing's disease (CD). However, despite the vast improvements in pituitary surgery, successful treatment of CD remains a great challenge. Although selective transsphenoidal removal of the pituitary tumor is a safe and effective procedure, the disease persists in around 22% of CD patients due to incomplete tumor resection. The persistence of hypercortisolism after pituitary surgery may also be the consequence of a misdiagnosis, as can occur in case of ectopic ACTH secretion or pseudo-Cushing. Considering the elevated mortality and morbidity characterizing the disease, a multidisciplinary approach is needed to minimize potential pitfalls occurring during the diagnosis, avoid surgical failure and provide the best care in those patients who have undergone unsuccessful surgery. In this review, we analyze the factors that could predict remission or persistence of CD after pituitary surgery and revise the therapeutic options in case of surgical failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Albani
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Braun LT, Reincke M. What is the role of medical therapy in adrenal-dependent Cushing's syndrome? Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101376. [PMID: 32063487 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Medical therapy to control hypercortisolism in adrenal Cushing's syndrome is currently not the first-line therapy. However, in many clinical scenarios like pre-surgical treatment, in patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or in patients with bilateral hyperplasia, medical therapy can be important representing the only viable treatment option. Adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors and glucocorticoid receptor blockers have been used for many years: metyrapone, ketoconazole and mifepristone are in current use and effective. Mitotane can be used as well but is considered second-line therapy because of its high toxicity. Etomidate has a special position as emergency medication in severe hypercortisolism. New drugs are tested in prospective trials (levoketoconazole, osilidrostat and relacorilant) and might become effective alternatives to common drugs. Oher drugs - adrenal steroidogenesis inhibitors as well as glucocorticoid receptor antagonists - are currently tested in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah T Braun
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Department for Endocrinology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
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Abstract
Overt Cushing's syndrome is a severe condition responsible for multiple comorbidities and increased mortality. Effective treatment is essential to reduce mortality, improve comorbidities and long-term quality of life. Surgical resection of the causal lesion(s) is generally the first-line and most effective treatment to normalize cortisol secretion. Adjunctive symptomatic treatments of co-morbidities are often necessary both during the active phase of the disease and for persisting co-morbidities after cessation of hypercortisolism. Second-line treatments include various pharmacological treatments, bilateral adrenalectomy, and radiotherapy of corticotroph tumors. The choice of these treatments is complex, must be performed in a multidisciplinary expert team to be individualized for each patient, and use a shared decision-making approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Ferriere
- Service d'endocrinologie, Diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU de bordeaux, Avenue Magellan 33600, Pessac, France.
| | - Antoine Tabarin
- Service d'endocrinologie, Diabétologie et maladies métaboliques, CHU de bordeaux, Avenue Magellan 33600, Pessac, France; INSERM and University of Bordeaux, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, France.
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39
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Barbot M, Zilio M, Scaroni C. Cushing's syndrome: Overview of clinical presentation, diagnostic tools and complications. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 34:101380. [PMID: 32165101 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2020.101380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a severe condition that results from chronic exposure to elevated circulating cortisol levels; it is a rare but potentially life-threating condition, especially when not timely diagnosed and treated. Even though the diagnosis can be straightforward in florid cases due to their typical phenotype, milder forms can be missed. Despite the availability of different screening tests, the diagnosis remains challenging as none of the available tools proved to be fully accurate. Due to the ubiquitous effect of cortisol, it is easy understandable that its excess leads to a variety of systemic complications including hypertension, metabolic syndrome, bone damages and neurocognitive impairment. This article discusses clinical presentation of CS with an eye on the most frequent cortisol-related comorbidities and discuss the main pitfalls of first- and second-line tests in endogenous hypercortisolism diagnostic workup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Barbot
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padova, Italy.
| | - Marialuisa Zilio
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padova, Italy
| | - Carla Scaroni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, University-Hospital of Padova, Italy
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40
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Pivonello R, Ferrigno R, De Martino MC, Simeoli C, Di Paola N, Pivonello C, Barba L, Negri M, De Angelis C, Colao A. Medical Treatment of Cushing's Disease: An Overview of the Current and Recent Clinical Trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:648. [PMID: 33363514 PMCID: PMC7753248 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a serious endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolism, or Cushing's syndrome (CS), caused by a corticotroph pituitary tumor, which induces an excessive adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and consequently cortisol secretion. CD presents a severe clinical burden, with impairment of the quality of life and increase in mortality. Pituitary surgery represents the first-line therapy, but it is non-curative in one third of patients, requiring additional treatments. Among second-line treatments, medical therapy is gradually gaining importance, although the current medical treatments are unable to reach optimal efficacy and safety profile. Therefore, new drugs and new formulations of presently available drugs are currently under clinical investigation in international clinical trials, in order to assess their efficacy and safety in CD, or in the general population of CS. Among pituitary-directed agents, pasireotide, in the twice-daily subcutaneous formulation, has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment both in clinical trials and in real-world studies, and extension studies of the phase II and III clinical trials reported evidence of long-term efficacy with general good safety profile, although associated with frequent hyperglycemia, which requires monitoring of glucose metabolism. Moreover, the most recent once-monthly intramuscular formulation, pasireotide long-acting release (LAR), showed similar efficacy and safety, but associated with potential better compliance profile in CD. Roscovitine is an experimental drug currently under investigation. Among adrenal-directed agents, metyrapone is the only historical agent currently under investigation in a prospective, multicenter, international clinical trial, that would likely clarify its efficacy and safety in a large population of patients with CS. Osilodrostat, a novel agent with a mechanism of action similar to metyrapone, seems to offer a rapid, sustained, and effective disease control of CD, according to recently completed clinical trials, whereas levoketoconazole, a different chemical formulation of the historical agent ketoconazole, is still under investigation in clinical trials, with preliminary evidences showing an effective and safe control of CS. ATR-101 is an experimental drug currently under investigation. Among glucocorticoid receptor-directed drugs, mifepristone has been demonstrated to improve clinical syndrome and comorbidities, especially hypertension and impairment of glucose metabolism, but the occurrence of hypokalemia and in women uterine disorders, due to the concomitant action on progestin receptor, requires caution, whereas the preliminary evidence on relacorilant, characterized by high selectivity for glucocorticoid receptor, suggested good efficacy in the control of hypertension and impairment of glucose metabolism, as well as a good safety profile, in CS. Finally, a limited experience has demonstrated that combination therapy might be an interesting approach in the management of CD. The current review provides a summary of the available evidences from current and recent clinical trials on CD, with a specific focus on preliminary data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosario Ferrigno
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina De Martino
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Simeoli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Di Paola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Livia Barba
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Negri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Cristina De Angelis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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41
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Abstract
Endogenous Cushing's syndrome is a chronic disease associated with increased morbidity and mortality if not appropriately treated. Recurrence and/or persistence of hypercortisolemia after surgical treatment, especially for Cushing's disease, are high, and long-term medical treatment is used to decrease cortisol levels and risk of metabolic comorbidities. Medical treatment is also often required while waiting for radiation effects to take place. In some cases, severe or life-threatening hypercortisolism must be urgently and medically treated, via intravenous medications or with combination therapy, before patients can undergo surgery. In the last decade, medical treatment has progressed from a few steroidogenesis inhibitors to three novel drug groups: new inhibitors for steroidogenic enzymes with possibly fewer side effects, pituitary-directed drugs that aim to inhibit the pathophysiological pathways of Cushing's disease, and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists that block cortisol's action. Understanding the pathophysiology of Cushing's syndrome has also led to the identification of potential targets that may decrease adrenocorticotrophic hormone and/or cortisol excess, and/or decrease tumor cell proliferation, and induce senescence or apoptosis. We provide here a review of current and near-future medical options to treat Cushing's syndrome, and discuss updates on clinical trials and the efficacy and safety of novel or in-development drugs, as well as future potential targets.
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Castinetti F, Graillon T, Dufour H, Brue T. Letter to the Editor: "Why We Should Still Treat by Neurosurgery Patients With Cushing Disease and a Normal or Inconclusive Pituitary MRI". J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:5791-5792. [PMID: 31276159 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-01183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Castinetti
- Department of Endocrinology, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille Medical Genetics, et Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Thomas Graillon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille Medical Genetics, et Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Henry Dufour
- Department of Neurosurgery, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille Medical Genetics, et Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Thierry Brue
- Department of Endocrinology, Aix-Marseille Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Marseille Medical Genetics, et Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
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43
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Nishioka H, Yamada S. Cushing's Disease. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8111951. [PMID: 31726770 PMCID: PMC6912360 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8111951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In patients with Cushing's disease (CD), prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for favorable long-term outcomes, although this remains a challenging task. The differential diagnosis of CD is still difficult in some patients, even with an organized stepwise diagnostic approach. Moreover, despite the use of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combined with advanced fine sequences, some tumors remain invisible. Surgery, using various surgical approaches for safe maximum tumor removal, still remains the first-line treatment for most patients with CD. Persistent or recurrent CD after unsuccessful surgery requires further treatment, including repeat surgery, medical therapy, radiotherapy, or sometimes, bilateral adrenalectomy. These treatments have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, the most important thing is that this complex disease should be managed by a multidisciplinary team with collaborating experts. In addition, a personalized and individual-based approach is paramount to achieve high success rates while minimizing the occurrence of adverse events and improving the patients' quality of life. Finally, the recent new insights into the pathophysiology of CD at the molecular level are highly anticipated to lead to the introduction of more accurate diagnostic tests and efficacious therapies for this devastating disease in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Nishioka
- Department of Hypothalamic and Pituitary surgery, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo 1058470, Japan;
- Okinaka Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Tokyo 1058470, Japan
| | - Shozo Yamada
- Hypothalamic and Pituitary Center, Moriyama Neurological Center Hospital, Tokyo 1340081, Japan
- Okinaka Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Tokyo 1058470, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-336-751-211
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Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is caused by a pituitary tumour that secretes adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) autonomously, leading to excess cortisol secretion from the adrenal glands. The condition is associated with increased morbidity and mortality that can be mitigated by treatments that result in sustained endocrine remission. Transsphenoidal pituitary surgery (TSS) remains the mainstay of treatment for CD but requires considerable neurosurgical expertise and experience in order to optimize patient outcomes. Up to 90% of patients with microadenomas (tumour below 1 cm in largest diameter) and 65% of patients with macroadenomas (tumour at or above 1 cm in greatest diameter) achieve endocrine remission after TSS by an experienced surgeon. Patients who are not in remission postoperatively or those who relapse may benefit from undergoing a second pituitary operation. Alternatively, radiation therapy to the sella with interim medical therapy, or bilateral adrenalectomy, can be effective as definitive treatments of CD. Medical therapy is currently adjunctive in most patients with CD and is generally prescribed to patients who are about to receive radiation therapy and will be awaiting its salutary effects to occur. Available treatment options include steroidogenesis inhibitors, centrally acting agents and glucocorticoid receptor antagonists. Several novel agents are in clinical trials and may eventually constitute additional treatment options for this serious condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Tritos
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - B M K Biller
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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45
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Pasternak-Pietrzak K, Moszczyńska E, Szalecki M. Treatment challenges in pediatric Cushing's disease: Review of the literature with particular emphasis on predictive factors for the disease recurrence. Endocrine 2019; 66:125-136. [PMID: 31701434 PMCID: PMC6838046 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-02036-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cushing's disease (CD) is a rare endocrine condition caused by a corticotroph pituitary tumor that produces adrenocorticotropic hormone. The current state of knowledge of CD treatment is presented in this article including factors that can be helpful in predicting remission and/or recurrence of the disease. The primary goals in CD treatment are quick diagnosis and effective, prompt treatment as the persistent disease is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Cooperation of a team consisting of experienced pediatrician/adult endocrinologist, neuroradiologist, transsphenoidal neurosurgeon and (if necessary) radiotherapist contribute to the best treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Pasternak-Pietrzak
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute (CMHI), Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Moszczyńska
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute (CMHI), Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mieczysław Szalecki
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, The Children's Memorial Health Institute (CMHI), Al. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730, Warsaw, Poland
- The Medicine and Health Sciences Faculty, University of Jan Kochanowski, Al. IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317, Kielce, Poland
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47
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Krylov VV, Dobreva EA, Kharnas SS, Kuznetsov NS, Marova EI, Levkin VV. [Surgical treatment of ACTH-ectopic syndrome]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) 2019:74-78. [PMID: 31464279 DOI: 10.17116/hirurgia201908174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
ACTH-ectopic syndrome is a severe, multiple-symptom disease characterized by secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by ectopic tumor, increased release of adrenal cortical hormones and clinical picture of hypercorticism. Diagnosis and treatment of ACTH-ectopic syndrome is still difficult problem despite the achievements of modern medicine. There are several unresolved issues including optimal diagnostic algorithm, indications for various surgical procedures and their optimal dates. This review is devoted to these questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V V Krylov
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Dobreva
- Endocrinology Research Centre, Moscow, Russia
| | - S S Kharnas
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - E I Marova
- Endocrinology Research Centre, Moscow, Russia
| | - V V Levkin
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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48
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Bikas A, Jensen K, Patel A, Costello J, Kaltsas G, Hoperia V, Wartofsky L, Burman K, Vasko V. Mitotane induces mitochondrial membrane depolarization and apoptosis in thyroid cancer cells. Int J Oncol 2019; 55:7-20. [PMID: 31115496 PMCID: PMC6561621 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2019.4802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitotane is used for the treatment of adrenocortical cancer and elicits its anticancer effects via inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. Targeting mitochondria‑dependent metabolism has emerged as a promising strategy for thyroid cancer (TC) treatment. We hypothesized that mitotane targets mitochondria and induces apoptosis in TC cells. Cell lines representative of the major histological variants of TC were chosen: Follicular (FTC‑133), poorly differentiated (BCPAP), anaplastic (SW1736 and C643) and medullary (TT) TC cells, and were treated with mitotane (0‑100 µM). Mitochondrial membrane potential, cell viability and apoptosis were examined by JC‑1 staining and by western blot analysis using an antibody against caspase‑3. The expression of mitochondrial molecules and DNA damage markers and the activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were determined by western blotting. The expression of mitochondrial ATP synthase subunit β (ATP5B) was examined by immunostaining in 100 human TC tissue samples. Treatment with mitotane (50 µM for 24 h) decreased the viability of FTC‑133, BCPAP, SW1736, C643 and TT cells by 12, 59, 54, 31 and 66%, respectively. Morphological evidence of ER stress and overexpression of ER markers was observed in TC cells following exposure to mitotane. The treatment led to increased expression of histone γH2AX, indicating DNA damage, and to caspase‑3 cleavage. Consistent with the results of the cell viability assays, the overexpression of pro‑apoptotic genes following treatment with mitotane was more prominent in TC cells harboring mutations in the serine/threonine‑protein kinase B‑raf gene and proto‑oncogene tyrosine‑protein kinase receptor Ret. Treatment with mitotane was associated with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and decreased expression of ATP5B, particularly in the medullary TC (MTC)‑derived TT cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of mitochondrial ATP5B in human TC specimens demonstrated its overexpression in cancer compared with normal thyroid tissue. The level of ATP5B expression was higher in MTC compared with the follicular, papillary or anaplastic types of TC. Mitotane elicited pleiotropic effects on TC cells, including induction of ER stress, inhibition of mitochondrial membrane potential and induction of apoptosis. The results of the present study suggest that mitotane could be considered as a novel agent for the treatment of aggressive types of TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Bikas
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kirk Jensen
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Aneeta Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - John Costello
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Gregory Kaltsas
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Victoria Hoperia
- Department of Fundamental Medicine, National University of Kyiv, 01033 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Leonard Wartofsky
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Kenneth Burman
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA
| | - Vasyl Vasko
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Cristante J, Lefournier V, Sturm N, Passagia JG, Gauchez AS, Tahon F, Cantin S, Chabre O, Gay E. Why we should still treat by neurosurgery patients with Cushing's disease and a normal or inconclusive pituitary MRI. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:4101-4113. [PMID: 31087046 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT In patients with Cushing's disease (CD) and a typical image of adenoma at MRI, transsphenoidal surgery is consensual. However, when MRI is inconclusive or normal, some authors now advocate medical treatment instead. The implicit assumption is that modern MRI should miss only very small microadenomas, too difficult to visualize at surgery. OBJECTIVE To analyze the evolution with time of the performances of MRI and the outcomes of surgery in CD patients with a typical image of adenoma vs. inconclusive or normal MRI. METHODS AND PATIENTS Retrospective single center study of 195 CD patients treated by transsphenoidal surgery between 1992 and 2018, using first a translabial microscopic and then a transnasal endoscopic approach. Patients with inconclusive or normal MRI were explored by bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS). Four MRI groups were defined : microadenomas (n=89), macroadenomas (n=18), or MRI either inconclusive (n=44) or normal (n=44). RESULTS The proportion of inconclusive/normal MRI decreased with time, from 60% (21/35) in 1992-96 to 27% (14/51) in 2012-2018 (p=0.037).In the 4 MRI groups, per-operatory adenoma visualization rate was only slightly lower when MRI was normal (95%; 100%; 86%; 79% ; p=0.012) and postoperative remission rates were not different (85%; 94%; 73%; 75 %; p= 0.11). CONCLUSION The diagnostic performances of MRI have improved but remain inferior to the eye of an expert neurosurgeon, best assisted by endoscopy. We propose that patients with CD and an inconclusive/normal MRI be still addressed to an expert neurosurgeon for transsphenoidal surgery rather than treated medically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nathalie Sturm
- Anatomy and pathology department, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Florence Tahon
- Neuroradiology unit, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble France
| | | | - Olivier Chabre
- Endocrinology unit, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Emmanuel Gay
- Neurosurgery unit, CHU Grenoble-Alpes, Grenoble France
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Lamos EM, Munir KM. Cushing disease: highlighting the importance of early diagnosis for both de novo and recurrent disease in light of evolving treatment patterns. Endocr Pract 2019; 20:945-55. [PMID: 25100372 DOI: 10.4158/ep14068.ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To highlight and summarize current literature on Cushing disease (CD)-related morbidity and mortality, focusing on residual complications after "cure" and the changing role of pharmacologic therapy in CD. METHODS Current journal articles on the consequences of untreated or undertreated CD, CD recurrence, and recent trends in CD treatment were collected from PubMed searches and analyzed in combination in view of the authors' clinical experience. RESULTS Timely recognition and treatment of de novo and recurrent CD remains a singular clinical challenge. Chronic excess cortisol exposure leads to potentially irreversible sequelae and death, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Disease relapse after primary pituitary adenomectomy is prevalent and recurrence may manifest decades after initial surgery. Increased risk for mortality and hypercortisolism-related complications in postsurgical CD patients may indicate persistent subclinical disease and further underscores the need for cautious, ongoing observation and testing. Potential long-term pharmacologic treatment options (e.g., pasireotide, mifepristone) have recently emerged that may provide biochemical and symptomatic remission for those with refractory CD, or those for whom surgery is contraindicated. CONCLUSION Delays in CD diagnosis, management, and follow-up are common and lead to increased adverse metabolic complications and mortality. Rapid recognition and treatment as well as vigilant monitoring are therefore essential. After surgical treatment, some patients may suffer from persistent subclinical CD that remains difficult to detect with routine testing. Although long-term pharmacologic treatment has historically been limited by adverse reactions or escape from response, new treatments may offer more options for patients with refractory disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Lamos
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kashif M Munir
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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