Which diagnosis is suggested by a patient presenting with amenorrhea, proximal muscle weakness, and central obesity?

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The presentation of amenorrhea, proximal muscle weakness, and central obesity aligns with Cushing syndrome, which is characterized by excessive cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and its overproduction can lead to a range of symptoms due to its effects on metabolism and other bodily functions.

Amenorrhea can occur in Cushing syndrome due to hormonal imbalances that affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Central obesity is another hallmark of this condition, as increased cortisol levels contribute to fat redistribution, leading to a characteristic "moon face" and increased abdominal fat. Proximal muscle weakness is also commonly associated with Cushing syndrome due to the catabolic effects of elevated cortisol, which can lead to muscle wasting.

In contrast, Addison disease—an adrenal insufficiency—would typically present with fatigue, weight loss, and skin hyperpigmentation rather than obesity. Hypothyroidism may lead to weight gain and menstruation irregularities, but it does not usually present with proximal muscle weakness as a significant feature. Pituitary insufficiency can cause amenorrhea and various other symptoms but does not specifically lead to the combination of proximal muscle weakness and central obesity in the same way that Cushing syndrome does.

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