====== Ectopic ACTH secretion ======

[[Hypercortisolism]] may also be due to ectopic secretion of [[ACTH]] usually by tumors, most commonly [[Small-Cell Lung Cancer]], [[thymoma]], [[carcinoid]] tumors, [[pheochromocytoma]]s, and medullary [[thyroid carcinoma]]. In addition to findings of [[Cushing’s syndrome]], patients are typically cachectic due to the malignancy which is usually rapidly fatal.
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Ectopic [[adrenocorticotropic hormone]] secretion (EAS) is responsible for approximately 10-15% cases of [[Cushing's syndrome]]. EAS is associated with various tumors such as small cell lung cancer and well-differentiated bronchial or gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors. Hormonal diagnostics include assessments in basic conditions as well as dynamic tests, such as the high-dose dexamethasone suppression test and corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) stimulation test. Treatment selection depends on the type of tumor and its extent. In the case of neuroendocrine tumors, the main treatments are surgery and administration of somatostatin analogs that may be additionally radiolabeled for targeted radiotherapy. The tumor histology and the presence and control of hypercortisolemia and metastases are of major importance in prognosis
((Witek P, Witek J, Zielinski G, Podgajny Z, Kaminski G. Ectopic Cushing's
syndrome in light of modern diagnostic techniques and treatment options. Neuro
Endocrinol Lett. 2015 Aug 27;36(3):201-208. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID:
26313384.
)).