Introduction[edit | edit source] Show
Cushing’s syndrome is a general term for increased secretion of cortisol by the adrenal cortex.
The clinical presentation is the same for all of these conditions.[1] [2] Epidemiolgy[edit | edit source]The actual incidence and prevalence of Cushing syndrome are not known. The prevalence of the disease is highly variable across different ethnic and cultural groups depending upon the frequency and spectrum of the medical conditions requiring steroid-based therapy.
Etiology[edit | edit source]Corticosteroid Medications There are two main etiologies of Cushing syndrome:
Characteristics/Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]Clinical manifestations include “moon” face (very round), buffalo hump (truncal obesity with prominent supraclavicular and dorsal cervical fat pads) [4], protuberant abdomen with accumulation of fatty tissue and stretch marks with purple striae, muscle wasting and weakness, thin extremities, decreased bone density (especially spine), kyphosis and back pain (secondary to bone loss), easy bruising and poor wound healing due to thin and atrophic skin [4], acne, psychiatric or emotional disturbances, impaired reproductive function (decreased libido and changes in menstrual cycle, and diabetes mellitus. In women, masculinizing effects such as hypertrichosis, breast atrophy, voice changes, and other signs of virilism are noted. Cessation of linear growth is characteristic in children. [1] [4] Complications[edit | edit source]Complications
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]Taking glucocorticoid medications is the most common cause of Cushing syndrome. If this is the case other tests are not needed. Cushing syndrome from endogenous cortisol production can be difficult to diagnose because other conditions have similar signs and symptoms. Diagnosing Cushing syndrome can be a long and extensive process. The below tests can help find the cause:
Management[edit | edit source]Treatments for Cushing syndrome are designed to lower the high level of cortisol in the body. The best treatment for you depends on the cause of the syndrome. Options include:
In the management of Cushing syndrome, it is crucial to treat comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, osteoporosis, psychiatric issues, and electrolyte disorders.[3] Physical Therapy Management[edit | edit source]Therapists are more likely to treat people who have developed medication-induced Cushing’s syndrome. Exogenous steroids are administered for a number of inflammatory and other disorders eg asthma or rheumatoid arthritis. [1] Educate Clients with regard to:
References[edit | edit source]
Which hormone overproduction is associated with carpal tunnel syndrome?Overactive pituitary gland
When the pituitary gland is overactive, it can lead to oversized hands that can cause compression of the median nerve.
What hormone is produced in excessive amounts that directly result in the following condition large hands and feet in adult large facial bones?Acromegaly is a rare condition where the body produces too much growth hormone, causing body tissues and bones to grow more quickly. Over time, this leads to abnormally large hands and feet, and a wide range of other symptoms.
Which hormonal deficiency causes diabetes insipidus in a client?Diabetes insipidus is caused by a lack of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also called vasopressin, which prevents dehydration, or the kidney's inability to respond to ADH. ADH enables the kidneys to retain water in the body. The hormone is produced in a region of the brain called the hypothalamus.
Which adverse effects can be seen in a female client with gonadotropin deficiency and who is undergoing hormone replacement therapy?Women exhibit secondary amenorrhea, infertility, decreased vaginal secretion, dyspareunia, hot flashes, decreased bone density, and breast tissue atrophy.
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