Cushing's Syndrome

Question 1

cushing’s syndrome

Answer 1

• common disease
• cortisol catabolizes protein, leading to weakened muscles (proteins don’t have stores, exist in structural forms with functions)

Question 2

gluconeogeneis

Answer 2

• production of CHO from non-CHO sources
• results in an increase of glucose in blood and altered glucose metb
• prolonged hyperglycemia
• results in IR (presence of insulin, no hypoglycemic effect)
• IGT (different reason than in DM)

Question 3

does cushing’s syndrome affect mineralcorticoid release?

Answer 3

no; aldosterone is released in normal quantities - retains Na+, excretes K+

Question 4

explain more about cushing’s syndrome in relation to mineralcorticoid release

Answer 4

• non-physiological elevated levels of cortisol results in cortisol taking on some of aldosterone’s fx
• cortisol causes Na+/h20 retention and K+ excretion
• can result in HTN and hypokalemia

Question 5

Mnftns

Answer 5

1) rounded moon face (excess lipid deposition affects face, neck, abdomen)
2) increased infections d/t susceptibility (cortisol suppresses immune response and infltm)
3) androgen secretion sometimes elevated
4) hypertrophic adrenal gland

Question 6

describe why androgen secretion can be elevated

Answer 6

• most androgens prod in testes, but some in adrenal glands
• if elevated in prod in female, excess amount of male sex hormones results in SMSC
• buffalo hump = fat deposits on shoulders
• facial hair and male balding pattern