Severe Ectopic Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Syndrome Due to Pulmonary Carcinoid Tumor: A Case Report and Literature Review

Background/Objective

Pulmonary carcinoid tumors are a rare cause of Cushing’s syndrome and usually present with an indolent course. Here, we present a case of rapid onset and severe Cushing’s syndrome due to a typical pulmonary carcinoid tumor.

Case Report

A 32-year-old woman developed diabetes, hypertension, and weight gain of 50 pounds over 3 months. Laboratory evaluation was significant for elevated cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels and levels were nonsuppressible on low and high-dose dexamethasone suppression tests. Chest computed tomography revealed a pulmonary nodule and biopsy showed a typical carcinoid tumor. She was treated with steroidogenesis inhibitors with a plan for surgical excision but developed worsening complications of hypercortisolemia. She eventually underwent cryoablation of the tumor, but unfortunately passed away just 6 months after her initial presentation.

Discussion

Cushing’s syndrome in typical pulmonary carcinoid tumors is rarely seen and usually presents with mild hypercortisolism similar to Cushing’s disease. Severe hypercortisolemia from typical pulmonary carcinoid tumors can represent a more aggressive pathology or metastatic disease. Severe Cushing’s syndrome is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and requires rapid tumor localization as surgical resection can be curative.

Conclusion

This case highlights a rare presentation of severe Cushing’s syndrome due to a typical pulmonary carcinoid.