Docs Who Lift Cortisol Myths vs Reality: What Your Adrenals Actually Do
20 snips
Jan 7, 2026 
Dr. Richard Aukas, an endocrinologist specializing in adrenal health, discusses the vital role of cortisol in stress response and its circadian rhythm. He clarifies the complexities around diagnosing adrenal disorders and the challenges faced with cortisol testing. Richard dives into Cushing's syndrome and its signs, emphasizing the importance of early detection. He also shares insights from the CATALYST trial, revealing how glucocorticoid antagonism can impact diabetes management and hints at future therapies. Plus, a quirky anecdote connects hormone levels to woolly mammoths!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Adrenal Incidentalomas Can Secrete Cortisol
- Many incidental adrenal nodules make small amounts of cortisol and blur the line between normal and pathologic secretion.
Combine Labs, Size, And Symptoms Before Surgery
- When dexamethasone suppression suggests autonomous secretion, evaluate ACTH and DHEA-S and consider tumor size and symptoms before surgery.
Surgery Reveals Suppressed Contralateral Adrenal
- Post-adrenalectomy adrenal insufficiency shows that small cortisol excess can suppress the contralateral adrenal long-term.