Definition

A rare tumor that makes the hormone adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), which causes the adrenal glands to make too much cortisol. Adrenocorticotropic-secreting tumors can lead to Cushing syndrome. Signs and symptoms of adrenocorticotropic-secreting tumors and Cushing syndrome include a round face, thin arms and legs, severe fatigue and muscle weakness, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, purple or pink stretch marks on the skin, and weight gain, especially in the abdomen. Adrenocorticotropic-secreting tumors usually form in the pituitary gland or in the islet cells of the pancreas, but they may also form in other organs, including the lung, thyroid, and thymus. Adrenocorticotropic-secreting tumors may be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Also called ACTHoma.