ectopic ACTH syndrome

Etiology

• ACTH- or CRH-producing non endocrine tumors
  • bronchogenic carcinoma
    • small cell carcinoma (50%)
  • carcinoid
  • pancreatic carcinoma
  • bronchial adenoma

Clinical manifestations

• generalized hyperpigmentation
• see Cushing's syndrome

Management

• treatment of underlying malignancy may result in some reversal of hyperpigmentation

More general terms

• paraneoplastic syndrome
• Cushing's syndrome

Additional terms

• adrenocorticotropic hormone; corticotropin; adrenocorticotropin (ACTH)
• pituitary adenoma/ACTH secreting