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Functional Hypercortisolism

Meaning

Functional hypercortisolism describes a state of persistently elevated cortisol activity that is not caused by a primary pituitary or adrenal tumor, thus distinguishing it from classic Cushing’s disease or syndrome. This condition is typically driven by chronic non-pathological stressors, such as severe psychological distress, chronic inflammatory states, or significant metabolic derangements. While not overtly Cushingoid, this chronic cortisol elevation can still lead to clinical manifestations like central adiposity, insulin resistance, and bone density loss, demanding careful clinical attention and management.