Question

The client is admitted with Cushing's disease. Which symptoms support the diagnosis of Cushing's disease? A. Hypoglycemia and weight loss B. Increased lymphocytes and pale complexion C. Osteoporosis and a pendulous abdomen D. Decreased blood pressure and cyanosis

Short answer

A. Hypoglycemia and weight loss B. Increased lymphocytes and pale complexion C. Osteoporosis and a pendulous abdomen D. Decreased blood pressure and cyanosis Answer: C. Osteoporosis and a pendulous abdomen

Step-by-step solution

Understand Cushing's disease

Cushing's disease is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of the hormone cortisol. The most common cause is a pituitary gland tumor, which leads to an overproduction of cortisol in the body.

Identify the symptoms of Cushing's disease

The most common symptoms of Cushing's disease include weight gain (especially in the upper body), a rounding of the face (moon face), easy bruising, thinning of the skin, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and changes in mood and cognitive function.

Analyze the given options

A. Hypoglycemia and weight loss: These symptoms do not match the common symptoms of Cushing's disease, as the disease is generally associated with weight gain, not weight loss, and high blood sugar levels, not low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). B. Increased lymphocytes and pale complexion: These symptoms are not typically associated with Cushing's disease. The hormonal changes in this condition do not directly affect lymphocyte levels or skin complexion. C. Osteoporosis and a pendulous abdomen: Osteoporosis is a common symptom of Cushing's disease, as the high levels of cortisol weaken the bones. A pendulous abdomen, or protruding belly, is also often seen in patients due to the fat redistribution and weight gain caused by Cushing's disease. D. Decreased blood pressure and cyanosis: These symptoms are not characteristic of Cushing's disease. The condition typically leads to high blood pressure, not low blood pressure, and there's no direct correlation between Cushing's disease and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin).

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis of the given options, the correct answer is option C, as it lists symptoms that are both common and characteristic of Cushing's disease: osteoporosis and a pendulous abdomen.