THE OSTEOPOROSIS OF CUSHING'S SYNDROME

Abstract

1. The bone changes in four autopsied cases of Cushing's syndrome are described. The changes take the form of osteoporosis, which is most marked in the spine and the ribs. 2. The osteoporosis results from impaired osteoblastic bone formation in the presence of a normal degree of osteoclastic bone resorption. 3. Histological abnormalities of fracture callus in Cushing's syndrome indicate interference with the proliferation of osteoblasts and cartilage cells and with the formation of new tissue by these cells. 4. The bone changes in Cushing's syndrome are comparable with those produced in experimental animals by the administration of A.C.T.H. or cortisone.