Cushing disease commonly causes which metabolic abnormality?

Cushing disease commonly causes which metabolic abnormality?

• A. Hyperglycemia
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hyponatremia

Answer: (A)

Excess cortisol in Cushing disease raises blood sugar by two main actions: it stimulates hepatic gluconeogenesis and it impairs insulin action in peripheral tissues. The liver increases glucose production, and cortisol reduces glucose uptake by muscle and fat, leading to higher fasting and postprandial glucose levels. This commonly results in glucose intolerance or diabetes. While cortisol excess can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, hyperkalemia is not expected, and hyponatremia is not typical; the hallmark metabolic change is hyperglycemia.

Excess cortisol in Cushing disease raises blood sugar by two main actions: it stimulates hepatic gluconeogenesis and it impairs insulin action in peripheral tissues. The liver increases glucose production, and cortisol reduces glucose uptake by muscle and fat, leading to higher fasting and postprandial glucose levels. This commonly results in glucose intolerance or diabetes. While cortisol excess can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, hyperkalemia is not expected, and hyponatremia is not typical; the hallmark metabolic change is hyperglycemia.