Long-term effects of glucocorticoid excess on the brain

Alies J. Dekkers, Jorge M. Amaya, Merel van der Meulen, Nienke R. Biermasz, Onno C. Meijer, Alberto M. Pereira

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articleAcademicpeer-review

22 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The metabolic and cardiovascular clinical manifestations in patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) are generally well known. However, recent studies have broadened the perspective of the effects of hypercortisolism, showing that both endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoid excess alter brain functioning on several time scales. Consequently, cognitive deficits and neuropsychological symptoms are highly prevalent during both active CS and CS in remission, as well as during glucocorticoid treatment. In this review, we discuss the effects of endogenous hypercortisolism and exogenously induced glucocorticoid excess on the brain, as well as the prevalence of cognitive and neuropsychological deficits and their course after biochemical remission. Furthermore, we propose possible mechanisms that may underly neuronal changes, based on experimental models and in vitro studies. Finally, we offer recommendations for future studies.
Original languageEnglish
Article numbere13142
JournalJournal of neuroendocrinology
Volume34
Issue number8
Early online date2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2022

Keywords

  • Cushing
  • cognition
  • corticosteroid
  • glucocorticoid
  • neuroimaging
  • neuropsychology

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