Complications Of Cushing's Syndrome

Unhealthy Levels Of Cholesterol

Individuals affected by Cushing's syndrome may have unhealthy levels of cholesterol in their blood. Elevated cortisol levels in the body over an extended period can cause the total cholesterol and triglyceride levels to become elevated. Several factors contribute to the occurrence of this complication, including indirect cortisol action on lipid breakdown, free fatty acid turnover, fatty accumulation in the liver, indirect cortisol action on lipid breakdown, free fatty acid production, and synthesis of very-low-density lipoproteins. Cortisol is known to increase the lipase actions on the lipoproteins responsible for the transportation of fats and other lipids in an individual's blood. This process is increased in the adipose and visceral fat tissues where it activates the breakdown of this stored fat, releasing free fatty acids into the patient's blood circulation. It is this increase in free fatty acids in the blood that results in the unhealthy levels of cholesterol in individuals affected by Cushing's syndrome.

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