Cushing's syndrome is the result of the excessive production of corticosteroids by the adrenal glands. An overproduction of corticotropin (ACTH) - the hormone that controls the adrenal gland - by the pituitary gland, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce corticosteroids, may be one cause. It is called Cushing's disease and the result of ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma. Alt.
deficiency. a lack or shortage; a condition characterized by the presence of less than the normal or necessary supply or competence. color vision deficiency see color vision deficiency.
Specific, i.e. lack of sufficient amounts of a single nutrient e.g. a single vitamin or mineral. The health consequences of such a deficiency depend on the nutrient that is lacking and the severity of the deficiency. Different medical conditions - hence different symptoms and risks - follow from different deficiencies.