Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

What disease is characterized by thinning skin that bruises easily?

1. Pisiosis

2. Cushing's syndrome

3. Rosacea

4. Eczema

The correct answer is: Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's syndrome is a disorder that arises from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol in the body. One of the hallmark symptoms of this condition is thinning of the skin, which makes it more susceptible to bruising. This occurs because cortisol affects the production of collagen and other proteins vital for skin integrity and strength. As a result, individuals with Cushing's syndrome may notice that their skin becomes fragile, leading to easy bruising even from minor impacts. The other conditions listed do not primarily feature the symptom of easily bruised skin due to thinning. For example, psoriasis is more associated with thick, scaly patches, while rosacea typically presents with facial redness and inflammation. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, can lead to skin irritation and inflammation, but it does not cause the skin to thin in the same manner as Cushing's syndrome. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why Cushing's syndrome is the correct choice in this context.