ACTH-Independent Hypercorticism in Adrenal Tumors and Adrenocortical Hyperplasia

Abstract

Cortisol production is normally under the regulation of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Hypercortisolism or Cushing's syndrome, characterized by excessive cortisol levels, may be caused by ACTH-independent mechanisms. The present work aims to review the current knowledge on ACTH-independent mechanisms through aberrant expression of hormone receptors in adrenal tumors and adrenocortical hyperplasia. In particular, the effects of epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, arginine vasopressin, and gastric inhibitory polypeptide are discussed.KEY WORDS: hypercorticism, adrenal tumors, adrenocortical hyperplasia, Cushing's syndrome, ACTH-independent CITATION: liu and hanna. aCth-independent hypercorticism in adrenal tumors and adrenocortical hyperplasia.