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Pushing Syndrome Research Paper

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Choice "E" is the best answer. Cushing syndrome is a clinical syndrome associated with an excess of glucocorticoids(GCs), due either to elevated levels of endogenous cortisol or exogenous use of glucocorticoid medications such as prednisone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone, and betamethasone. Common signs and symptoms include altered fat deposition (including “moon facies” and “buffalo hump”, referring to fat deposition in the face and the upper back), weight gain, hypertension, striae, acne, hyperglycemia, and central muscle weakness. Treatment involves cessation of glucocorticoid therapy, though a taper is crucial, as abrupt withdrawal can lead to acute adrenal insufficiency and shock. In non-endocrine disorders, GCs are commonly given in pharmacologic (therapeutic) doses to suppress inflammation. In endocrine disorders, however, corticosteroid doses are often given at or close to physiologic doses (rather than in therapeutic ranges). GC-associated toxicity appears to be related to both the average dose and cumulative duration of GC use. However, for most GC-related adverse events, “threshold” dose or treatment duration has not been established. Choice "A" is not the best answer. While a proper diet and exercise program is …show more content…

CT of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast is a tool to identify pathology in a large number of conditions. In patients with endocrinopathies, pancreatic and adrenal lesions may be identified that could relate to their condition. In this patient, it is theoretically possible for the Cushing syndrome to be caused by a cortisol-secreting adrenal tumor. However, Cushing syndrome is much more commonly secondary to exogenous glucocorticoids rather than endogenous glucocorticoids; therefore, stopping the patient’s prednisone use should be the first step. If the symptoms of steroid excess persist, then a CT of the abdomen with a three-phase adrenal protocol could be performed to identify a potential adrenal

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