Laser Technician (International Board of Electrologist Certification) IBEC Board Exam

Which medical condition is indicated by excess cortisone and symptoms such as moon face and hirsutism?

1. Hyperthyroidism

2. Cushing's syndrome

3. Addison's disease

4. Diabetes mellitus

The correct answer is: Cushing's syndrome

The correct answer is Cushing's syndrome, which is characterized by an excess of cortisone in the body, often resulting from an overproduction of cortisol by the adrenal glands. The symptoms commonly associated with this condition include "moon face," which is a rounded appearance of the face due to fat distribution, as well as hirsutism, which is the excessive growth of hair in areas where men typically grow hair. These manifestations arise because elevated levels of cortisol influence metabolism and fat storage, alongside the hormonal imbalances that promote hair growth. In contrast, hyperthyroidism involves excessive thyroid hormone production, which leads to different symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Addison's disease is marked by insufficient cortisol levels, and its symptoms typically include fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure, not the excess symptoms seen in Cushing's syndrome. Diabetes mellitus, while it involves hormonal regulation, primarily affects blood glucose levels rather than causing the specific symptoms related to cortisone excess.