The diagnosis and differential diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is defined as the symptoms and signs of glucocorticoid e xcess, but the precise diagnosis may be difficult to establish and harder t o localise. The clinicial, biochemical and imaging features of the syndrome are discussed in the light of our own extensive experience and the publish ed literature. We describe the optimal diagnostic routines currently recomm ended in major centres, and analyse the sensitivities and specialities of t he various tests employed. Only by means of establishing a precise diagnosi s can the disorder be successfully treated. Copyright (C) 1999 S. Karger AG , Basel.