Nelson's Syndrome

Nelson's syndrome is a condition that can develop in some people after they have their pituitary tumor (caused by Cushing's disease) surgically removed. It involves the overgrowth of a specific type of pituitary tumor that produces too much of the hormone ACTH. This excess ACTH can lead to skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) and the growth of tumors in the pituitary or nearby areas, which may cause headaches or vision problems. Essentially, it’s a complication where the body’s response to the initial treatment results in an overproduction of hormones and tumor growth.