1. Identify Tumors as Quickly as Possible
Since the causes of ectopic cushing syndrome may not be preventable, the best approach to prevention is to identify the tumors that result from this condition as quickly as possible. In general, cushing syndromes are the result of glutocorticoid hormones being released into the bloodstream over an extended period of time. This may be caused by untreated tumors near the adrenal gland, or by using certain drugs to treat arthritis and asthma.
The secret is to identify the most common symptoms of ectopic cushing syndrome and to submit to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scans on a regular basis once the first tumor has been identified. Symptoms include distinct changes in the anatomy, most notably the thickening of the torso and the thinning of arms and legs. Faces may become round and moon shaped, and the skin may darken or be covered with purple stretch marks.
2. Submit to Blood and Urine Tests to Identify Hormone Levels
Cushing syndromes may be prevented by monitoring blood and urine for excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone, or ACTH. Urine may be collected to check creatine and cortisol levels, which may indicate and excess of ACTH. Blood tests may be used to check glucose levels and the presence of high amounts of potassium. This strategy may be a less costly and more convenient way to prevent ectopic cushing syndrome than to order MRIs and CT scans whenever you visit the doctor.
3. Stick to the Treatment Plan to Prevent Further Tumors
If you have been diagnosed with ectopic cushing syndrome and the tumors have been removed through surgery, it's important to see your doctor to prevent the tumors from returning. It's common for the tumors to return, and they can be removed quite easily if caught in time. If you neglect to undergo testing on a regular basis, the tumors could become cancerous, or they may become too numerous to remove.
