Endocrine disorder

Endocrine Disorder

An Endocrine Disorder is a medical condition that affects the endocrine system, a network of glands that produce and release hormones that help control many important body functions, especially the body's ability to change calories into energy that powers cells and organs. The endocrine system influences how your heart beats, how your bones and tissues grow, and even your ability to make a baby. It plays a vital role in whether or not you develop diabetes, thyroid disease, growth disorders, sexual dysfunction, and a host of other hormone-related disorders.

Pronunciation

Endocrine Disorder: /ɛndəkrɪn dɪsˈɔːdər/

Etymology

The term "Endocrine" originates from the Greek words "endo" meaning within, and "krinein" meaning to separate or secrete. The term "Disorder" comes from the Middle English "disorden", which means a disturbance in physical health.

Related Terms

• Endocrine System
• Hormones
• Diabetes
• Thyroid Disease
• Growth Disorders
• Sexual Dysfunction

Types of Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders are typically grouped into two categories: those that result from the endocrine gland producing too much or too little of certain hormones, and those that occur when the body has difficulty properly responding to hormones. Some common endocrine disorders include:

• Diabetes Mellitus: A condition where the body's blood glucose or blood sugar levels are too high.
• Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
• Hyperthyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
• Addison's Disease: A disorder that occurs when the body produces insufficient amounts of certain hormones produced by your adrenal glands.
• Cushing's Syndrome: A disorder caused by the body's exposure to excessive levels of the hormone cortisol.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of endocrine disorders can be complex, as symptoms can be nonspecific and may be attributed to other causes. Diagnosis often involves a series of hormone tests. Treatment of these disorders can be by hormone replacement, and in some cases, surgery. Medications are also available to treat symptoms related to the disorder.

See Also

• Endocrinology
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Endocrine Surgery

This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.