cushings

Question 1

what is cushing’s syndrome?

Answer 1

Adrenal dysfunction, leading to steroid XS / over production of cortisol

Question 2

causes of cushings syndrome?

Answer 2

1. steroid use
2. pituitary tumour
3. ectopic
4. adrenal tumour

Question 3

outline the investigations for cushings?

Answer 3

1. o/n dex suppression test
2. high dose dex suppression test
3. petrosal sinus sampling

Question 4

a high dose dex suppression test reduces the amount of cortisol… where is the source?

Answer 4

pituitary tissues or adrenal tumour

Question 5

a high dose dex suppression test does not reduce the amount of cortisol.. where is the source?

Answer 5

ectopic or sclc

Question 6

an over night dex suppression test shows no reduction in cortisol levels, what does this mean?

Answer 6

no reduction = positive diagnosis of Cushings.

Question 7

what blood results may indicate cushings sydnrome (ABG/VBG)

Answer 7

metabolic alkalosis with
hypokalaemia