Which characteristic finding should a nurse expect in a client diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome?

In a client diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome, the presence of osteoporosis is a significant characteristic finding. Cushing's syndrome is caused by an excess of cortisol in the body, which can result from various factors, including adrenal tumors, pituitary adenomas, or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications. Elevated cortisol levels can interfere with bone metabolism, leading to increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation, which ultimately results in osteoporosis.

Patients may experience a reduction in bone density, making them more susceptible to fractures. Therefore, when considering the manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, osteoporosis is a key characteristic due to the hormonal imbalances that affect the skeletal system.

The other options, while they may also be relevant in the context of Cushing’s syndrome, do not characterize it as directly as osteoporosis does in relation to its pathophysiology.