Cyclical Cushing's syndrome and the presentation of a Bipolar Affective state

Abstract

Affective disorders are relatively frequently observed in patients suffering from endocrine disease. Thus, in Cushing's syndrome, the most common comorbid mental disorder seen is depressive disorder. The rarer cyclical form of Cushing's syndrome may present with fluctuating mood changes, which may mimic or induce a Bipolar Affective presentation. It is thus imperative in mental health patients that display signs and symptoms of hypercortisolemia to conduct the appropriate tests, such as testing for 24‐hour urine free cortisol, so as to assess for any organic causes to their presentation.