Endocrine system Flashcards
Define Cushing syndrome
Constellation of bodily responses to excess glucocorticoids
List clinical features of Cushing syndrome
Acne Mental disturbance, mood swings Hypertension Menstrual abnormalities Moon face and central obesity
What is the difference between cushings disease and syndrome
The disease causes the syndrome
What is cushings disease
Hypersecretion of ACTH from a benign tumor from the pituitary gland which in turn increases cortisol
What is Addison’s disease
Symptoms caused by chronic insufficiency of adrenal cortical hormones due to destruction of adrenal cortex ( leads to combined lack of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids)
What causes Addison’s disease?
Infections
Autoimmune destruction
Metastatic carcinoma
Clinical features associated with Addison’s disease
Hyperpigmentation of the skin Fatigue Vomiting, nausea Weight loss Dehydration and hyperkalaemia
Why does Addison’s disease cause hyperpigmentation ?
It iscaused by the stimulant effect of excess adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) on the melanocytes to produce melanin.
What is the difference between primary and secondary adrenocortical deficiency?
Primary- increased ACTH with decrease in adrenalcortical hormones due to insufficiency of the function of the adrenal gland
Secondary- decrease in ACTH due to damage to pituitary gland which in turn leads to decreased adrenalcortical hormones
Define diabetes mellitus
Abnormal metabolic state characterized by glucose intolerance due to a defect in insulin action or secretion
What are the clinical symptoms of diabetes
Weight loss Blurred vision Ketoacidosis Dizziness TRIADE (polyuria, polydipsia, polyfascia)
What complications are associated with diabetes ?
Hypoglycemia MI, strokes, coronary disease Infections, sexual dysfunction, skin Nephrotic syndrome Cataracts Sensory peripheral neuropathy
