Which one of the following is a hormonal disorder caused by high level of cortisol in blood?

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Explanation

Cushing's syndrome is the clinical condition that results from chronic exposure to excess cortisol, a state known as hypercortisolism.
This can be caused by the body's own overproduction of cortisol (endogenous) or by long-term use of glucocorticoid medications (exogenous).
The characteristic signs include central obesity, a rounded 'moon' face, a fatty pad on the upper back ('buffalo hump'), and purple stretch marks (striae).

Option A: This disorder is caused by an excess of Growth Hormone (GH) in adults, not cortisol.
Option B: This condition is the opposite of Cushing's syndrome. It is caused by adrenal insufficiency, which leads to low levels of cortisol and often aldosterone.
Option D: This condition results from a deficiency of Growth Hormone (GH) during childhood, leading to stunted growth.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Pathophysiology of Adrenal and Pituitary Gland Disorders helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses caring for patients with Cushing's syndrome must prioritize monitoring for hyperglycemia, hypertension, and signs of infection, as high cortisol levels can impair glucose metabolism, raise blood pressure, and suppress the immune system.
Patient education is crucial, focusing on a low-sodium, high-potassium diet, the importance of regular, gentle exercise, and meticulous skin care to prevent breakdown.
What if? If a patient presented with hypotension, weight loss, and hyperpigmentation (bronzing of the skin), the primary suspicion would shift to Addison's disease, which is caused by cortisol deficiency.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'high level of cortisol'.
Second, systematically review the options and recall the primary hormonal imbalance associated with each disorder.
Recognize that Acromegaly and Pituitary Dwarfism are related to Growth Hormone, not cortisol.
Differentiate between the two cortisol-related disorders: Cushing's syndrome (high cortisol) and Addison's disease (low cortisol).
Match the condition of 'high cortisol' from the question stem to the correct disorder, which is Cushing's syndrome.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QOUwwG1GXqi6XkzkpYt9Z9

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 543-545

E6 Physiology Essentials Sembulingam 10e Part 2 p. 32-34

Practise the full NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.