Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Excess C4021124
Elevated levels of ACTH, a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands. It often stems from pituitary issues and can cause various hormonal symptoms. Treatment targets the underlying cause.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E34.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- endocrine
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Central weight gain
(endocrine)Fatigue or weight changes
(endocrine)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Proximal muscle weakness
(endocrine)Easy bruising
(integumentary)Hypokalemia
(endocrine)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Endocrine management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Transsphenoidal pituitary adenomectomy
Surgical removal of ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma via transsphenoidal approach as the primary curative treatment for Cushing's disease when ACTH excess originates from pituitary source. Success rates depend on tumor size and surgeon experience.
ACTH-suppressing medical therapy
Pharmacologic adrenal suppression using drugs that inhibit cortisol synthesis when surgery is unsuccessful, contraindicated, or as a bridge to definitive treatment. Requires careful dose titration and monitoring of hormone levels.
Additional treatment options
Stereotactic radiosurgery
Focused radiation therapy to target residual or recurrent pituitary tumor tissue when surgery is incomplete or not feasible. May take months to years to achieve full effect on hormone levels.
procedureBilateral adrenalectomy
Surgical removal of both adrenal glands as a definitive treatment when the ACTH source cannot be localized or safely removed, or when rapid control of severe hypercortisolism is urgently needed.
surgicalComprehensive ACTH and cortisol monitoring
Serial measurements of ACTH and cortisol levels to differentiate pituitary from ectopic ACTH source, assess treatment response, and detect recurrence. May include inferior petrosal sinus sampling when localization remains unclear.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
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Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Excess C4021124?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Nieman LK, Biller BM, Findling JW, et al. Treatment of Cushing's syndrome: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2015.
Lacroix A, Feelders RA, Stratakis CA, Nieman LK. Cushing's syndrome. Lancet. 2015.
Honegger J, Grimm F, Mueller M, et al. Long-term outcome after endoscopic endonasal surgery for Cushing's disease. Neurosurgery. 2018.
Tommaso M, Pivonello R, Scaroni C, et al. Medical therapy for Cushing's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pituitary. 2021.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Excess C4021124. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy