Patients with Cushing's disease are usually obese and exhibit osteoporosis and muscle wasting. Male patients become impotent and female patients have amenorrhea. Which of the following is the correct reason for the disease?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cushing's disease is caused by a tumor of the pituitary gland that causes excessive production of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Excessive cortisol leads to the symptoms of Cushing's disease, including obesity, osteoporosis, and muscle wasting. Male patients can become impotent due to excess cortisol, while female patients may experience amenorrhea due to disruption of the menstrual cycle. Tumors of the suprarenal medulla or reduced ACTH or cortisol production would not lead to the symptoms of Cushing's disease. A tumor of the thyroid gland may cause hyperthyroidism, but this is a separate condition with different symptoms.

Patients with Cushing's Disease Are Usually Obese and Exhibit Osteoporosis