Cushing's syndrome

Question 1

Cushing’s disease

Answer 1

1. pituitary adenoma formed by resulting in excess ACTH

2. secondary hypercortisolism

Question 2

Clinical features : skin

Answer 2

1. purple abdominal striae
2. hirsutism
3. face flushing
4. acne

Question 3

Clinical features : musculoskletal

Answer 3

1. muscle atrophy/weakness

2. oesteoporosis

Question 4

How does weight gain present in cushing’s disease?

Answer 4

1. central obesity
2. mood face
3. buffalo hump

Question 5

Clinical fearures - endocrine/metabolic

Answer 5

1. Insulin resistance - hyperglycaemia
2. Dyslipidaemia
3. decreased libidp

Question 6

clinical features - neuropsychological

Answer 6

1. lethargy

2. depression

Question 7

Why does secondary hypercortisolism present with hyperpigmentation?

Answer 7

1. excess ACTH production in 2nd hypercholesterolaemia

2. Melanocyte stimulating hormone is cleaved from the same precursor