Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 95%
Practice
The comprehensive serologic assessment of a patient with Cushings syndrome is likely to produce which constellation of findings?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C. In Cushing's syndrome, there is excess cortisol production leading to sodium retention, potassium loss, and increased protein breakdown. Low sodium and potassium levels along with high BUN are commonly seen in patients with Cushing's syndrome.
A: Low potassium and high glucose are possible findings, but high white blood cell count is not typically associated with Cushing's syndrome.
B: High sodium and polycythemia are not typical findings in Cushing's syndrome, and low BUN is not consistent with the protein breakdown seen in this condition.
D: High sodium and high chloride levels can be seen, but high RBCs are not typically associated with Cushing's syndrome.
A: Low potassium and high glucose are possible findings, but high white blood cell count is not typically associated with Cushing's syndrome.
B: High sodium and polycythemia are not typical findings in Cushing's syndrome, and low BUN is not consistent with the protein breakdown seen in this condition.
D: High sodium and high chloride levels can be seen, but high RBCs are not typically associated with Cushing's syndrome.