Cushing's Syndrome

Question 1

What is the cause of cushing’s syndrome

Answer 1

High production of hormones by the adrenal glands (Glucocorticoids)

Question 2

What are major symptoms of cushing’s syndrome

Answer 2

Buffalo hump
Moon face
hirsutism lethargy
weakness
weight gain

Question 3

what is the skin of a client with cushing’s syndrome

Answer 3

Fragile and bruises

Question 4

Will this client be over or under weight for cushings

Answer 4

Overweight

Question 5

Will the serum blood glucose levels be high or low for cushing’s

Answer 5

High - sodium levels increased

Question 6

Will the serum potassium levels be high or low for cushings

Answer 6

Low So will calcium

Question 7

What is the treatment for cushings

Answer 7

lifelong glucocorticoid therapy possible hypophysectomy or adrenalectomy

Question 8

Cushings anticipated lab values

Answer 8

Dexamethasone suppression test - Will lower blood cortisol levels but in cushings levels remain high
Late night salivary cortisol test - taken around midnight when they shoudl be low - but cushings will be high

Question 9

What is the patient with cushings most at risk for

Answer 9

Fluid overload - can lead to pulmonary edema