Endocrine Disorders and Their Clinical Manifestations

These flashcards cover key concepts related to endocrine disorders, including Cushing's disease, diabetes insipidus, and associated symptoms and treatments.

Cushing's disease

A condition characterized by excessive cortisol production leading to symptoms like weight gain, thin limbs, and 'moon face.'

Buffalo hump

A fatty lump between the shoulders, often associated with Cushing's disease.

Diabetes insipidus

A condition characterized by the inability of the kidneys to conserve water, leading to excessive urination and dehydration.

Serum osmolality

A measure of the body’s electrolyte balance; often elevated in cases of diabetes insipidus.

Aldosterone

A hormone that promotes sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, helping to regulate blood pressure.

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

A hormone primarily involved in promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys.

Cortisol

A glucocorticoid hormone released by the adrenal cortex in response to stress.

Cushing's Syndrome

A condition characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body.

Hyperkalemia

An electrolyte imbalance resulting from decreased aldosterone in Addison's disease, leading to high potassium levels.

Gluconeogenesis

The production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, increased by elevated cortisol levels in Cushing syndrome.

Hypocalcemia

A condition of low calcium levels, commonly seen in hypoparathyroidism, leading to muscle spasms and tetany.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

A severe complication of diabetes characterized by fruity-smelling breath due to ketone bodies in the blood.

Hyponatremia

A low sodium level in the blood, often seen in syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH).

IV calcium gluconate

A treatment administered intravenously for hypocalcemia, particularly following thyroidectomy.

Metabolic syndrome

A cluster of conditions including abdominal obesity and elevated blood glucose levels that increase the risk of heart disease.

Myxedema coma

A severe form of hypothyroidism presenting with hypothermia and decreased level of consciousness.

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS)

A life-threatening condition characterized by high blood glucose and severe dehydration, mainly in type 2 diabetes.

Pituitary Gland

Often referred to as the 'master gland' due to its role in regulating various endocrine functions.

Insulin

A hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels.

Parathyroid Hormone

A hormone that increases blood calcium levels in the body.

Glucagon

A hormone that increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver.

Stridor

A high-pitched breathing sound indicating airway obstruction or compromise, necessitating immediate assessment.