What characteristic physical feature is commonly associated with Cushing's syndrome?

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, which can manifest in several distinctive physical features. One of the hallmark signs is the presence of a buffalo hump, which refers to the abnormal accumulation of fat in the upper back and neck area. This feature occurs due to the redistribution of fat caused by the hormonal changes associated with hypercortisolism.

The buffalo hump is a classic sign observed in patients with Cushing's syndrome, along with other potential features such as moon facies, which is characterized by a round, puffy appearance of the face. However, the buffalo hump is particularly emblematic of the condition, making it a commonly recognized physical feature among practitioners and in medical literature.

While options like the bull's eye rash and abdominal distension can indicate other medical conditions, they do not specifically reflect the pathophysiological changes associated with Cushing's syndrome. Therefore, recognizing the buffalo hump is crucial for identifying patients who may have this disorder and for guiding further evaluation and management.