Which physical finding is most characteristic of hypercortisolism?

Which physical finding is most characteristic of hypercortisolism?

• A. Buffalo Hump
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hyperactivity
• D. Hypoventilation

Answer: (A)

Excess cortisol leads to fat redistribution, with a dorsocervical fat pad forming at the base of the neck. This buffalo hump is a classic, distinguishing physical finding in hypercortisolism (Cushing syndrome). It reflects the way glucocorticoids promote central/ trunk fat accumulation and regional fat deposition. The other options don’t fit this picture: hyperkalemia is not a typical feature of cortisol excess (mineralocorticoid effects or Addison’s disease would drive high potassium more); hyperactivity is not a hallmark symptom of cortisol excess, and hypoventilation isn’t related to cortisol physiology.

Excess cortisol leads to fat redistribution, with a dorsocervical fat pad forming at the base of the neck. This buffalo hump is a classic, distinguishing physical finding in hypercortisolism (Cushing syndrome). It reflects the way glucocorticoids promote central/ trunk fat accumulation and regional fat deposition. The other options don’t fit this picture: hyperkalemia is not a typical feature of cortisol excess (mineralocorticoid effects or Addison’s disease would drive high potassium more); hyperactivity is not a hallmark symptom of cortisol excess, and hypoventilation isn’t related to cortisol physiology.