A common presenting symptom of Cushing syndrome related to the gastrointestinal system is:

Cushing syndrome, characterized by excess cortisol in the body, can lead to various gastrointestinal complications due to the hormone's effects on the gastrointestinal tract. One significant manifestation is the increased risk of peptic ulcers. Cortisol has several effects, including increased gastric acid secretion and decreased mucosal defense mechanisms, which can contribute to the formation of ulcers.

Peptic ulcers encompass both gastric and duodenal ulcers, and the elevated cortisol levels can lead to increased irritation and damage to the gastric lining, causing ulceration. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high levels of glucocorticoids can impair the healing of existing ulcers and promote the development of new ones. Understanding the relationship between Cushing syndrome and peptic ulcers underscores the importance of monitoring patients for gastrointestinal symptoms.

In contrast, while duodenal ulcers can occur, they are more specifically categorized under the broader term of peptic ulcers. Conditions such as esophageal varices and gastritis, while pertinent to gastrointestinal health, do not have a direct and common link to the excess cortisol seen in Cushing syndrome as peptic ulcers do.