Signs/Symptoms
True or False: Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome appear quickly
False: Cushing's syndrome will appear slowly over time
What is a major risk for a patient with Cushing's Syndrome?
Infection is a major risk due to cortisone's inhibiting effects on the immune system.
Which organ produces cortisol?
The adrenal cortex produces cortisol.
Is Cushing's disease a problem with hypersecretion or a hyposecretion?
Cushing's disease is a problem with hyper secretion.
Women with Cushing's syndrome will notice an increase in ______.
Which vitals are most important to monitor regularly?
Weight and blood pressure, due to mineralocorticoids' effects on sodium retention.
Which hormone is released by the pituitary that stimulates the production of cortisol?
The anterior pituitary gland releases ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) in response to stress.
Which other chronic disease can be caused by Cushing's syndrome?
Type II diabetes
Stretch marks and an increased susceptibility to bruising is caused by what S/S?
Thinning Skin
Which types of injuries is a Cushing's patient at risk for?
Skin tears and broken bones, due to fragile skin and bones.
What is the most common cause of exogenous Cushing's Syndrome?
Glucocorticoid medications are the most common cause of iatrogenic Cushing's Syndrome.
Which part of the adrenal gland secretes cortosol?
Zona fasciculata
Where are the three most common places for weight gain in a person with CS?
Face, between the shoulders, midsection
How do you discontinue a corticosteroid medication?
If the medication has been taken for more than two weeks, it must be tapered.
What is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing syndrome?
Pituitary gland tumor.
Why do patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy have a decreased stress response?
The adrenal cortex atrophies due to lack of stimulation.