Final answer:
Cushing's syndrome, caused by excess cortisol, is characterized by a 'moon face,' fat accumulation, and high blood glucose levels, which can lead to diabetes mellitus. Treatment focuses on reducing cortisol through various methods including surgery, radiation, or medications. Monitoring for symptoms of diabetes is crucial due to the associated high blood glucose levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cushing's Syndrome Overview
When considering Cushing's syndrome, it's essential to evaluate for signs of this condition since it manifests through hypersecretion of cortisol. Common symptoms include rapid weight gain particularly in the face and neck, leading to a distinctive moon face, as well as a buffalo hump on the back of the neck. Patients may also experience high blood glucose levels, which can lead to diabetes mellitus, another condition to monitor for. The build-up of adipose tissue and an increased risk of obesity are additional concerns.
Other effects of excess cortisol include thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and muscle weakness. Bone pain can occur due to the breakdown of proteins in the connective tissue. Treatment of Cushing's syndrome centers on reducing the high levels of cortisol, often through surgery to remove a tumor if one is present, radiation therapy, or medication that regulates cortisol production.
In contrast, a hyposecretion of cortisol leads to Addison's disease, notable for symptoms like hyperpigmentation of the skin. Furthermore, symptoms like high blood glucose levels in Cushing's syndrome suggest the need for monitoring for diabetes mellitus. Finally, disorders like hypothyroidism or acromegaly may present with different sets of symptoms and are differentiated from Cushing's syndrome through specific diagnostic criteria.