Reversal of diabetes after treatment of ACTH dependent Cushing's syndrome

Abstract

A 16 year old girl presented to us dor evaluation of diabetes. On exmination, she had stigmata of Cushing's syndrome, and laboratory evaluation confirmed the presence of ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome. Neuroimaging studies revealed a microadenoma of the pituitary gland, which was successfully resected. Following the proceedure, the patient's diabetes resolved completely and the signs of steroid excess also subsided. This case highlights the importance of looking for secondary causes of diabetes and the dramatic results that can be expected on prompt treatment of such causes.