Melissa Gilbert Reveals She Was Diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease Following a Near-Fatal Neurological Collapse
NEW YORK (August 22, 2024) – Actress Melissa Gilbert, 60, best known for her iconic role as Laura Ingalls Wilder on the classic television series “Little House on the Prairie,” has disclosed a life-threatening medical diagnosis that occurred earlier this year. According to a statement released by her publicist on Tuesday, Gilbert was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease after collapsing at her home in upstate New York due to a severe neurological event. The collapse, described by her medical team as “a critical incident involving a pituitary tumor,” prompted immediate hospitalization. Medical professionals confirmed that the tumor was successfully removed through transsphenoidal surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, in February. Gilbert reported a full recovery, noting that she is now symptom-free and has resumed public appearances. The announcement sheds light on the rare condition, which causes excess cortisol production, and has prompted a surge in online searches for symptoms and treatment options. Authorities at the National Institutes of Health have not commented on the case but have verified the rarity of the diagnosis, affecting approximately 10-15 people per million annually.