Cushing's disease is a hormonal imbalance seen as a result of prolonged exposure to the hormone cortisol. A patient with Cushing's presents with a tumor in the hormonal gland known as the pituitary. According to the Cushing's Support and Research Foundation, it is a rare occurrence in children, and only seen in 10 percent of the estimated 10 to 15 million annual cases. There are several symptoms seen in children affected with Cushing's disease.
Weight Gain
A common symptom seen in children with Cushing's disease is increased weight gain and decreased vertical growth. The hormone cortisol enhances the production of sugar in the body, which leads to an increased secretion of insulin to bring down the sugar levels. Insulin increases storage of fat, thus enabling the child to gain weight especially in the face, upper back and trunk areas.
Hypertension and Excess Hair Growth
The increased secretion of cortisol leads to elevation in blood pressure. Excess hair growth is also seen in children with Cushing's disease, especially in the cheeks, arms and legs. Pubic hair may appear in younger children before they undergo puberty, while older female children may have an absent or irregular menstrual cycle. Darkened skin might appear around the neck and armpits.
Stretch Marks
The hormone cortisol weakens collagen, which makes up connective tissue seen in the body. Collagen is found in the bone and blood vessels. Cushing's disease secretes increased cortisol levels, which can rupture blood vessels and cause stretch marks on the stomach areas. It can also break down muscles, though that symptom is not commonly seen in children.
