Which finding would a nurse expect in a client with Cushing's syndrome related to fat distribution?

Which finding would a nurse expect in a client with Cushing's syndrome related to fat distribution?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Thick, coarse skin
• C. Deposits of adipose tissue in the trunk and dorsocervical area
• D. Weight gain in arms and legs

Answer: (C)

Excess cortisol in Cushing's shifts fat deposition toward the trunk and the dorsocervical area, producing central obesity and a buffalo hump. This pattern of fat redistribution is a hallmark of hypercortisolism, so finding adipose tissue concentrated in the trunk and at the back of the neck best fits Cushing's syndrome. Think of why the other ideas don’t fit: hypotension isn’t typical—hypertension is common with cortisol excess; skin tends to become thin and fragile with easy bruising and striae, not thick, coarse skin; and weight gain is usually centralized rather than occurring mainly in the arms and legs, where fat is less likely to accumulate in this condition.

Excess cortisol in Cushing's shifts fat deposition toward the trunk and the dorsocervical area, producing central obesity and a buffalo hump. This pattern of fat redistribution is a hallmark of hypercortisolism, so finding adipose tissue concentrated in the trunk and at the back of the neck best fits Cushing's syndrome.

Think of why the other ideas don’t fit: hypotension isn’t typical—hypertension is common with cortisol excess; skin tends to become thin and fragile with easy bruising and striae, not thick, coarse skin; and weight gain is usually centralized rather than occurring mainly in the arms and legs, where fat is less likely to accumulate in this condition.