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Cushing's Syndrome Behind Hypokalemia and Severe Infection: A Case Report

Catarina Elias1, Diana Oliveira2, Maria Manuel Silva3

  • 1Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, PRT.

Cureus
|January 16, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare condition causing severe complications like infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent serious health issues and mortality in patients with hypercortisolism.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Cushing's syndrome (CS) presents with diverse, often non-specific symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis.
  • Hypercortisolism in CS significantly increases risks for cardiovascular, infectious, and thrombotic complications.

Observation:

  • A case is presented of a woman investigated for CS due to refractory hypokalemia, hypernatremia, and metabolic alkalosis.
  • The patient exhibited multiple cardiovascular risk factors and was hospitalized for a severe bacterial infection, progressing from muscle abscesses to osteomyelitis.

Findings:

  • Infectious complications are a major cause of mortality in CS patients.
  • Hypercortisolism-induced immunosuppression predisposes individuals to severe infections.

Implications:

  • Prompt diagnosis and management of CS are essential for mitigating severe morbidity and mortality.
  • Recognizing CS in patients with unexplained electrolyte imbalances and infections is critical for timely intervention.

Keywords:
cushing's diseasecushing’s syndromehypercortisolismhypokalemiainfection

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