Which of the following is an additional manifestation of Cushing's syndrome?

Which of the following is an additional manifestation of Cushing's syndrome?

• A. Decreased axilla and pubic hair
• B. Tachycardia and bulging eyes
• C. Petechiae and abdominal purplish red striae on the abdomen
• D. Hypotension and hypoglycemia

Answer: (C)

Excess cortisol weakens connective tissue and makes the skin fragile, leading to easy bruising, petechiae, and the classic purplish-red abdominal striae from rapid stretching of weakened skin. These skin changes are a hallmark of Cushing’s syndrome due to cortisol overproduction or prolonged use of glucocorticoids. The other findings aren’t typical for Cushing’s: decreased axillary and pubic hair suggests androgen abnormalities; tachycardia with bulging eyes points to hyperthyroidism; and hypotension with hypoglycemia goes against the hypertension and hyperglycemia commonly seen with cortisol excess. So petechiae and abdominal purplish-red striae best reflect the additional manifestation of Cushing’s syndrome.

Excess cortisol weakens connective tissue and makes the skin fragile, leading to easy bruising, petechiae, and the classic purplish-red abdominal striae from rapid stretching of weakened skin. These skin changes are a hallmark of Cushing’s syndrome due to cortisol overproduction or prolonged use of glucocorticoids. The other findings aren’t typical for Cushing’s: decreased axillary and pubic hair suggests androgen abnormalities; tachycardia with bulging eyes points to hyperthyroidism; and hypotension with hypoglycemia goes against the hypertension and hyperglycemia commonly seen with cortisol excess. So petechiae and abdominal purplish-red striae best reflect the additional manifestation of Cushing’s syndrome.