What symptom is commonly associated with Cushing's syndrome due to excess cortisol?

Moon facies refers to the characteristic round and full appearance of the face that is commonly associated with Cushing's syndrome, which is caused by excess cortisol levels in the body. This symptom arises due to the redistribution of fat and is one of the hallmark physical examination findings in patients with this condition. Additionally, moon facies often occurs alongside other clinical features of Cushing's syndrome, such as a buffalo hump and central obesity.

While weight loss, extreme fatigue, and severe hypotension can occur in various medical conditions, they are not classic symptoms of Cushing's syndrome. In fact, patients with Cushing's syndrome typically experience weight gain rather than loss, and while fatigue may be present due to the chronic nature of the illness and associated comorbidities, it is not the most defining characteristic. Severe hypotension is also not a common feature of Cushing's syndrome; in many cases, patients may experience hypertension due to cortisol's effects on vascular tone and volume. Thus, moon facies stands out as the most definitive and recognizable symptom associated with Cushing's syndrome.