Which condition is associated with osteoporosis as a musculoskeletal complication?

Which condition is associated with osteoporosis as a musculoskeletal complication?

• A. Cushing disease
• B. Hyperaldosteronism
• C. Addison disease
• D. Pheochromocytoma

Answer: (A)

Excess glucocorticoids drive osteoporosis by disrupting how bone is rebuilt. In Cushing disease, chronic high cortisol levels suppress the activity and lifespan of osteoblasts (the cells that form bone) and boost osteoclast survival (the cells that break down bone), while also reducing calcium absorption from the gut and increasing calcium loss in the kidneys. The net result is lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fragility fractures, especially in the spine and hip. The other conditions listed don’t typically cause osteoporosis as a primary musculoskeletal complication: hyperaldosteronism mainly affects blood pressure and electrolytes; Addison disease involves cortisol deficiency rather than excess; pheochromocytoma affects catecholamines and vascular symptoms without a direct, well-known link to bone loss. Therefore, Cushing disease is the condition most associated with osteoporosis.

Excess glucocorticoids drive osteoporosis by disrupting how bone is rebuilt. In Cushing disease, chronic high cortisol levels suppress the activity and lifespan of osteoblasts (the cells that form bone) and boost osteoclast survival (the cells that break down bone), while also reducing calcium absorption from the gut and increasing calcium loss in the kidneys. The net result is lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fragility fractures, especially in the spine and hip. The other conditions listed don’t typically cause osteoporosis as a primary musculoskeletal complication: hyperaldosteronism mainly affects blood pressure and electrolytes; Addison disease involves cortisol deficiency rather than excess; pheochromocytoma affects catecholamines and vascular symptoms without a direct, well-known link to bone loss. Therefore, Cushing disease is the condition most associated with osteoporosis.