RESUMEN
In cardiology, patients' cultural beliefs, linguistic differences, lack of knowledge, and socioeconomic status can create barriers to choosing device treatment. To address this issue, we conducted a thorough literature review using online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center's research portal. Our review found that cultural, religious, and linguistic barriers can contribute to patients' apprehension and reservations about device placement. These barriers can also impact patients' adherence to treatment and clinical outcomes. Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have difficulty accessing and affording device-based treatments. Additionally, fear and inadequate understanding of surgical procedures can deter patients from accepting device treatment in cardiology. To overcome these cultural barriers, healthcare providers must raise awareness about the benefits of device treatment and provide better training to overcome these challenges. It is crucial to address the unique needs of patients from different cultural backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses to ensure they receive the care they need.
RESUMEN
Adrenocortical tumors (ACTs) causing Cushing's syndrome are extremely rare in children and adolescents. Bilateral macronodular adrenocortical disease which is a component of the McCune-Albright syndrome is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing's syndrome. We report the case of a boy with Cushing's syndrome who presented with obesity and growth retardation. The child was hypertensive. The biochemical evaluation revealed that his serum cortisol levels were 25.80 µg/dL, with a concomitant plasma ACTH level of 10.0 pg/mL and nonsuppressed serum cortisol on high-dose dexamethasone suppression test (HDDST) to be 20.38 µg/dL. Computed tomography of the abdomen demonstrated a 8 × 6 × 5 cm left adrenal mass with internal calcifications. Following preoperative stabilization, laparotomy was carried out which revealed a lobulated left adrenal mass with intact capsule weighing 120 grams. Histopathological examination revealed a benign cortical neoplastic lesion, suggestive of adrenal adenoma; composed of large polygonal cells with centrally placed nuclei and prominent nucleoli without capsular and vascular invasion. On the seventh postoperative day, cortisol levels were within normal range indicating biochemical remission of Cushing's syndrome. On followup after three months, the patient showed significant clinical improvement and had lost moderate amount of weight and adrenal imaging was found to be normal.