Overactive pituitary gland – endocrinologist for Trier informs
Specialist for Trier: pituitary gland disorder and diabetes are a dangerous combination
TRIER. The pituitary gland, also known as the pituitary gland, regulates other endocrine glands in the human body and is therefore a kind of control center. If there are malfunctions here, this usually has serious consequences for the entire organism. A rare but serious disease in this context is Cushing’s disease. Prof. Dr. med. Dr. h. c. Christian Wüster, specialist in endocrinology, explains: “In Cushing’s disease, the pituitary gland produces too much of the stress hormone cortisol. The cause is usually a benign tumor in the area of the organ.”
Diabetes patients from Trier: examination of the pituitary gland can be useful
According to the expert, Cushing’s disease leads to a variety of symptoms that are often misjudged. Those affected suffer from high blood pressure, obesity and elevated blood sugar levels, among other things. “These are very similar signs to those found in patients with type 2 diabetes,” emphasizes Dr. Wüster. The overlap of symptoms often makes it difficult to recognize the overactive pituitary gland.
“In Germany, it takes an average of 48 months for patients with Cushing’s disease to receive the correct diagnosis,” says the specialist, pointing out a widespread deficit. There are simple laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose the disease quite reliably. “Clinical signs such as muscle atrophy in the arms and legs, parchment skin or poor wound healing also indicate an overactive pituitary gland,” says the endocrinologist.
Overactive pituitary gland is a significant risk factor, according to the specialist for Trier
Early detection of Cushing’s disease is even more important in diabetics, as both diseases are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. “A recently published study has shown that mortality in Cushing’s disease patients is increased by a factor of three. If poorly controlled diabetes is also present, the mortality rate increases by a factor of five,” says specialist Prof. Dr. Wüster. He demands that in cases of doubt, diabetics should always be checked to see whether everything is OK with the pituitary gland. Early treatment can significantly increase the life expectancy and quality of life of these patients.
