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Ectopic ACTH-Secreting Pituitary Adenoma of the Maxillary Sinus: A Rare Cause of Cushing’s Syndrome

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We describe a rare case of Cushing's syndrome caused by an ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary adenoma located in the maxillary sinus and outline the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. A 41-year-old woman presented with an eight-year history of progressive weight gain, fatigue, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, leading to a diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome. Inferior petrosal sinus sampling confirmed an ectopic ACTH source. Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography demonstrated a 12-mm lesion in the right maxillary sinus, which was successfully removed via an endonasal approach. Postoperatively, cortisol levels normalized and her symptoms resolved. The patient remains in remission 2.5 years following surgery. This case highlights the importance of considering ectopic ACTH-secreting adenomas in patients with Cushing's syndrome without a sellar mass and emphasizes the need for thorough diagnostic evaluation to ensure accurate tumor localization and optimal surgical management.

Source: Turkish Archives of Otorhinolaryngology

DOI: 10.4274/tao.2026.2025-5-3

Authors: Georgina Wordsworth, Tuğba Karagöz, Kathryn Lonnen, Warren Bennett, Timothy Bates

Institutions: North Bristol NHS Trust, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

Language: English

Topic: Pituitary Gland Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7203825762