Answer and Explanation:
A. Cushing's syndrome occurs with the dysregulation of cortisol production in the body. Thus, when the body has very high levels of cortisol in the blood, the hormonal balance is impaired, which can cause this syndrome. In the case presented in the question above, the elevated levels of cortisol were caused by the use of betamethasone. We can reach this conclusion because betamethasone is a corticosteroid and the prolonged use of this type of medication can promote uncontrolled cortisol in the body.
B. The main signs and symptoms are: rapid weight gain in the abdomen and facial swelling, abnormal appearance of hair on the face, increased blood pressure, appearance of red streaks on the belly, muscle weakness, healing problems, irregular menstruation, oily skin and acne breakouts, increased blood sugar, decreased libido, fertility problems.
C. Excessive appetite and lack of exercise and physical activity can put Sara at risk for hypertension, as this can decrease the diameter of the veins and arteries, in addition to causing the accumulation of fat in the veins and arteries, which causes an increase in blood pressure. We can see that she does not have Graves' disease, due to the lack of symptoms associated with this disease, which are not seen in Crushing's Syndrome as nervousness, irritability in the eyes, diarrhea, weight loss even with increased appetite and swelling in the region. thyroid.
D. Sara's treatment must be established by an endocrinologist, as this is a hormonal problem. In this case, it is likely that the doctor will reduce the dose of the medication she uses against asthma or even change the medication, if it is possible to treat Sara's asthma without corticosteroids.
E. The diagnosis can be made with blood test, hormonal analysis, magnetic resonance (since this syndrome can be caused by brain tumors), analysis of saliva, analysis of feces, analysis of urine, analysis of cortisol levels and test of stimulation of dexamethasone. A care plan includes regulation of food and fluid intake, hormonal regulation and regular physical activity.
