American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2025 - Free Pathology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Cushing's Syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, leading to several distinctive clinical signs and symptoms. One of the hallmark features is truncal obesity, which refers to the accumulation of fat primarily in the central part of the body, often resulting in a "moon face" appearance and a rounded abdomen. This fat redistribution occurs because cortisol plays a role in metabolism and fat storage, particularly promoting the storage of fat in the trunk rather than in the extremities.

In addition to truncal obesity, individuals with Cushing's Syndrome may exhibit other symptoms such as purple striae (stretch marks), muscle weakness, easy bruising, and altered blood sugar levels. While weight loss, dehydration, and hypotension are associated with various medical conditions, they do not typically characterize Cushing's Syndrome, where the opposite effects – weight gain, fluid retention, and hypertension – are more commonly observed. Therefore, recognizing truncal obesity is vital in diagnosing this endocrine disorder.