Case Study:
Patient: Daniel Miller, 38-year-old accountant
Presenting Symptoms: Weight gain around the trunk and face (moon face), thinning of arms and legs, purple stretch marks, fatigue, high blood pressure, anxiety, and decreased appetite.
Medical History: No previous diagnoses, occasional stress due to job demands.
Diagnosis: Cushing’s syndrome, confirmed by blood tests showing elevated cortisol levels and a failed dexamethasone suppression test.
Further Investigation: MRI revealed a small pituitary tumor.
Treatment: Daniel underwent surgery to remove the pituitary tumor. Following surgery, his cortisol levels gradually normalized.
Interesting Fact: Despite overall weight gain due to Cushing’s, Daniel experienced paradoxical weight loss in his limbs and reduced appetite. This seemingly contradictory symptom pointed towards ghrelin suppression, a lesser-known consequence of cortisol excess.
Outcome: Six months after surgery, Daniel’s physical symptoms significantly improved. He lost the moon face and gained muscle mass in his arms and legs. His appetite normalized, and his anxiety subsided. While on medication to ensure cortisol stays in check, Daniel is leading an active and healthier life.
This case study illustrates:
- The diverse and sometimes puzzling symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome.
- The hidden impact of cortisol on ghrelin, contributing to atypical weight distribution and loss of appetite.
- The importance of early diagnosis and treatment for Cushing’s syndrome to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
- https://drzaar.com/osteocalcin-in-acromegaly-and-dwarfism/