Cushing’s Disease & Acromegaly Surgery
Cushing’s disease (excess cortisol) and acromegaly (excess growth hormone) are caused by small pituitary tumors that often measure only a few millimeters. Because these conditions damage the heart, bones and metabolism over time, surgery to remove the tumor is the first-line treatment and can be curative.
These tumors demand precision: the goal is to remove the adenoma completely while preserving the normal gland. Dr. Daggubati uses high-definition endoscopy and, when helpful, intraoperative MRI to confirm complete removal.
Symptoms
- Cushing’s: central weight gain, round face, purple stretch marks, easy bruising, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression
- Acromegaly: enlarging hands and feet, ring and shoe size changes, jaw growth, sleep apnea, joint pain, sweating
How it is diagnosed
Endocrine testing (cortisol, ACTH, IGF-1, suppression tests), pituitary MRI, and occasionally petrosal sinus sampling.
Treatment options
Without surgery
Medications can control hormone levels but rarely cure; they are used before surgery or when surgery is incomplete.
Surgical options Dr. Daggubati offers
Common questions
How is the tumor found if it is only a few millimeters?
High-resolution pituitary MRI finds most of them. When the MRI is unclear in Cushing’s disease, a procedure called inferior petrosal sinus sampling measures hormone levels near the gland to confirm the source and side.
What are the chances surgery cures the condition?
For small tumors that are fully removed, remission rates are roughly 80–90% for Cushing’s disease and 70–80% for acromegaly. Larger or invasive tumors have lower rates and may need medication or radiosurgery afterward.
What happens after surgery?
Hormone levels are checked closely in the first days and weeks; some patients need temporary cortisol replacement after Cushing’s surgery while the normal gland recovers. Endocrinology follows you long-term.
Not sure this is you?
Bring your imaging and your story. A single visit usually clarifies what is going on and which options are realistic. Request an appointment or call (301) 718-9611.