QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Although high-dose iatrogenic steroid administration can cause cushingoid symptoms, Cushing’s disease is glucocorticoid excess caused by an ACTH-secreting pituitary tumour.
10007998
d
Iatrogenic glucocorticoid administration
QuestionChoice
A subarachnoid haemorrhage can present as a severe, sudden onset headache, and is caused by a bleed into the subarachnoid space between the brain and surrounding meninges. It is not the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease.
10007999
e
A bleed into the subarachnoid space
QuestionChoice
The adrenal medulla is responsible for releasing adrenaline and noradrenaline. A tumour in this area is known as a pheochromocytoma and would present with headaches, tachycardia, high blood pressure, and sweating.  It is not the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease.
10007996
b
Increased activity of the adrenal medulla due to a tumour
QuestionChoice
This is the typical pathophysiology of Addison’s disease in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. It is not the pathophysiology of Cushing's disease.
10007997
c
Reduced glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid secretion due to autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex
QuestionChoice
The underlying pathophysiology of Cushing’s disease is glucocorticoid excess caused by an ACTH-secreting pituitary tumour. This represents a specific form of Cushing's syndrome, which describes an endocrine disorder of glucocorticoid excess. Symptoms include weight gain, proximal muscle weakness, easy bruising and abdominal striae.
10007995
a
Glucocorticoid excess due to a pituitary tumour
Concept
Chapter
2693
3764
Cushing's syndrome
Topic
133
Endocrinology
14146
A 32-year-old man presents to the GP with sudden weight gain, muscle weakness, bruising, and purple striae on his abdomen. He is referred to an endocrinologist who diagnoses the man with Cushing’s disease.

Which of the following describes the underlying pathophysiology in Cushing’s disease?
a