Which musculoskeletal problem is associated with Cushing disease?

Which musculoskeletal problem is associated with Cushing disease?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Osteoarthritis
• C. Gout
• D. Rickets

Answer: (A)

Excess cortisol from Cushing disease accelerates bone loss and weakens bone formation. Cortisol increases osteoclast activity (bone resorption) and suppresses osteoblast function (bone creation), while also reducing calcium absorption from the gut and increasing calcium loss by the kidneys. The net effect is lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fractures, which is the hallmark of osteoporosis. This pattern fits the musculoskeletal problems seen with Cushing disease, unlike osteoarthritis (degenerative joint wear-and-tear), gout (crystal deposition from uric acid), or rickets (vitamin D/calcium deficiency).

Excess cortisol from Cushing disease accelerates bone loss and weakens bone formation. Cortisol increases osteoclast activity (bone resorption) and suppresses osteoblast function (bone creation), while also reducing calcium absorption from the gut and increasing calcium loss by the kidneys. The net effect is lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fractures, which is the hallmark of osteoporosis. This pattern fits the musculoskeletal problems seen with Cushing disease, unlike osteoarthritis (degenerative joint wear-and-tear), gout (crystal deposition from uric acid), or rickets (vitamin D/calcium deficiency).