Final answer:
Patients with Cushing syndrome have decreased resistance to infection due to the immunosuppressive effects of elevated cortisol levels. Treatments aim to reduce cortisol, but susceptibility to infection remains a concern that requires vigilant management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients with Cushing syndrome typically have decreased resistance to infection. This condition is characterized by elevated cortisol, which can suppress the immune response. Symptoms such as high blood glucose levels, obesity, muscle weakness, and bone pain are common, as cortisol promotes the breakdown of proteins to make glucose through gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, signs like excessive sweating, capillary dilation, and skin thinning can indicate weakened body defenses leading to easy bruising.
Treatments focus on reducing the excessive cortisol levels, whether by ceasing use of cortisol ointments, surgical removal of tumor tissues, radiation therapy to shrink tumors, or medications to regulate cortisol. However, despite these treatments, cortisol's immunosuppressive effects can persist, making patients more susceptible to infections. Therefore, it is vital for those managing Cushing syndrome to monitor for signs of infection and manage them promptly.