Drug-induced Cushing's syndrome

This code signifies Cushing's syndrome that has developed as a direct consequence of exogenous drug administration, typically corticosteroids. It describes a state of hypercortisolism caused by external pharmaceutical agents, leading to a constellation of signs and symptoms such as central obesity, moon facies, and skin fragility.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates Cushing's syndrome is iatrogenic, resulting from prescribed or illicit drug use. This is commonly seen in patients on long-term systemic corticosteroid therapy for inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Supporting documentation should specify the drug causing the syndrome.

• Always identify the specific drug causing the Cushing's syndrome and code it as an adverse effect (T38.- with 5th or 6th character for adverse effect).
• Differentiate from endogenous Cushing's syndrome (e.g., pituitary adenoma, adrenal tumor) which would be coded elsewhere.
• Do not use this code for Cushing's syndrome of unspecified etiology; documentation must link it to a drug.