Alcohol-induced pseudo-Cushing's syndrome
ICD-10 E24.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alcohol-induced pseudo-cushing's syndrome.
Alcohol-induced pseudo-Cushing's syndrome is a condition characterized by symptoms resembling Cushing's syndrome, which are triggered by excessive alcohol consumption. This syndrome is not due to an actual adrenal or pituitary disorder but rather results from the effects of alcohol on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Patients may present with features such as obesity, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and mood disturbances. The pathophysiology involves alcohol's impact on cortisol metabolism and secretion, leading to elevated cortisol levels that mimic the clinical picture of Cushing's syndrome. Diagnosis typically requires a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed history of alcohol use, physical examination, and laboratory tests to assess cortisol levels. Management focuses on reducing or eliminating alcohol intake, which can lead to resolution of symptoms and normalization of hormone levels. Understanding the interplay between alcohol consumption and endocrine function is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Detailed history of alcohol consumption, laboratory results, and symptomatology.
Patients presenting with obesity, hypertension, and mood changes linked to alcohol use.
Endocrinologists must ensure clear differentiation from other causes of hypercortisolism.
Assessment of mood disorders and their correlation with alcohol use.
Patients with mood disturbances and a history of heavy alcohol use.
Psychiatrists should document the relationship between alcohol use and psychiatric symptoms.
Used to assess metabolic status in patients with suspected pseudo-Cushing's syndrome.
Document all lab results and their relevance to the diagnosis.
Endocrinologists should ensure comprehensive metabolic panels are performed to evaluate cortisol levels.
The primary cause is excessive alcohol consumption, which affects cortisol metabolism and secretion, leading to symptoms resembling Cushing's syndrome.
