Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Cortisol activates lipolysis in adipose tissue resulting in the release of free fatty acids into the circulation, it also activates cholesterol and triglycerides synthesis. The consequence is an increase in total circulating cholesterol and triglycerides with their inherent risks on the cardiovascular system. The aim of our work was to assess the prevalence and characteristics of dyslipidaemia in Cushing’s syndrome (CS).

Material and methods: This is a retrospective study concerning 51 CS (44F/7M) in whom we looked for the presence of hypertriglyceridemia (triglycerides level ≥1.50 g/l) and/or hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol level ≥2 g/l). Thereafter we looked for the characteristics of dyslipidaemia in CS. Their mean age was 32.34±10.42 years. CS was secondary to Cushing’s disease in 82% and to adrenal adenoma in 18%.

Results: 53.12% of patients have hypertriglyceridemia. Triglycerides level was between 1.50 and 1.99 g/l in 41.17% and ≥2 g/l in 48.83%. 88.23% of hypertriglyceridemic patients have diabetes and hypertension. 51.61% of patients have hypercholesterolemia. 68.75% of hypercholesterolemic patients have hypertriglyceridemia, 87.5% have diabetes, and 87.5% have hypertension.

Conclusion: Dyslipidaemia is frequent in CS. Hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia are frequently associated with hypertension and/or diabetes, which may explain the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in cortisol excess states.