APA Dictionary of Psychology

a group of signs and symptoms related to a chronic overproduction of corticosteroid hormones, mainly cortisol, by the adrenal cortex. The condition occurs most commonly in women and is usually associated with a tumor of the adrenal or pituitary gland. Cushing’s syndrome is characterized by a “moon face” due to fat deposits, “buffalo hump” fat pads on the trunk, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and psychiatric disturbances. [Harvey W. Cushing (1869–1939), U.S. surgeon]