Which of the following is a characteristic feature of Cushing's syndrome?

• A. Central obesity, glucose intolerance, and easy bruising
• B. Attacks of severe headaches, hypertension, and glucosuria
• C. Hyperpigmentation, hypoglycemia, and orthostasis
• D. Tetany, hypocalcemia, and cataracts

Answer: (A)

Excess cortisol causes the classic pattern seen in Cushing's syndrome: fat is redistributed to the trunk and face, leading to central obesity; cortisol promotes gluconeogenesis and insulin resistance, causing glucose intolerance or hyperglycemia; and it weakens collagen and skin, resulting in easy bruising and fragile skin. These effects together create the hallmark cluster described as central obesity, glucose intolerance, and easy bruising, making that option the best fit for Cushing's syndrome.

The other scenarios point to different disorders. Headache with hypertension and glucosuria can be seen with diabetes and vascular symptoms but isn’t the distinguishing trio for Cushing’s. Hyperpigmentation with orthostatic changes suggests adrenal insufficiency (Addison disease), not cortisol excess. Tetany with hypocalcemia relates to calcium metabolism disorders, and cataracts can be associated with long-term steroid use but do not by themselves define Cushing’s syndrome.