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Diseases & Conditions- Adult Health Library
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Endocrinology
Acromegaly
Acromegaly What is acromegaly? Acromegaly is the Greek word for "extremities" and "enlargement." When the pituitary gland produces excess growth hormones, excessive abnormal growth occurs. This is called acromegaly. The excessive growth occurs first in the hands and feet, as soft tissue begins to swell. This rare disease affects mostly middle-aged adults. Untreated, the disease can lead to severe illness and death. What causes acromegaly? Overproduction of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary gland over...
Adrenal Tumors / Pheochromocytoma
Adrenal Tumors / Pheochromocytoma What are adrenal tumors? There are two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney toward the back. Tumors of the adrenal glands are rare. However, when present, they can cause many problems by excess secretion of certain adrenal-produced hormones. One type of tumor of the adrenal glands is called a pheochromocytoma. What is a pheochromocytoma? A pheochromocytoma is an adrenal gland tumor that secretes epinephrine and norepinephrine hormones. These hormones are responsibl...
Anatomy of the Endocrine System
Anatomy of the Endocrine System The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to control and coordinate your body's internal balance or homeostasis, its energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and environmental factors. The following are integral parts of the endocrine system: Click Image to Enlarge Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is located in the brain, near the optic chiasm. It secretes hormones that stimulate or suppress t...
Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes Insipidus What is diabetes insipidus? Diabetes insipidus is a condition that results from insufficient production of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), a hormone that helps the kidneys and body conserve the correct amount of water. It is not related to the more common type of diabetes called diabetes mellitus. Normally, the antidiuretic hormone controls the kidneys' output of urine. It is secreted by the hypothalamus (a small gland located at the base of the brain) and stored in the pituitary glan...
Disorders of the Adrenal Glands
Disorders of the Adrenal Glands Many disorders of the adrenal glands require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Underactive Adrenal Glands / Addison's Disease Overactive Adrenal Glands / Cushing's Syndrome Tumors / Pheochromocytoma
Disorders of the Pancreas
Disorders of the Pancreas Many disorders of the pancreas require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Pancreatitis Pancreatic Cancer Cystic Fibrosis
Disorders of the Parathyroid Glands
Disorders of the Parathyroid Glands Many disorders of the parathyroid glands require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Hyperparathyroidism Hypoparathyroidism Tumors
Disorders of the Pituitary Gland
Disorders of the Pituitary Gland Many disorders of the pituitary gland require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Acromegaly Diabetes Insipidus Empty Sella Syndrome Hypopituitarism Tumors
Disorders of the Thyroid
Disorders of the Thyroid Many disorders of the thyroid require clinical care by a physician or other health care professional. Listed in the directory below are some of the conditions, for which we have provided a brief overview. Hyperthyroidism / Graves' Disease / Toxic Nodular Goiter / Thyroiditis Hypothyroidism Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Tumors Thyroid Disorders in Women Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy Postpartum Thyroiditis Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy
Empty Sella Syndrome
Empty Sella Syndrome What is empty sella syndrome? Empty sella syndrome (ESS) is characterized by an enlarged bony structure (sella turcica) that houses the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. The pituitary gland may initially appear to be missing when imaging tests of the area are done. In primary ESS, the pituitary gland is usually flattened down along the contours of the sella turcica. It is associated with obesity and high blood pressure in women. Primary ESS may also be associated with a buil...
Endocrinology Statistics
Endocrinology Statistics Statistics related to the endocrine system Consider the following statistics, as they relate to the endocrine system: About 210,000 people with acute pancreatitis are admitted to hospitals in the United States each year. Addison's disease and Cushing's syndrome are rare diseases that involve the adrenal glands. Graves' disease is a condition that causes an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and affects less than 1 percent of the U.S. population. The most common form of thyroid...
Glossary - Endocrinology
Glossary - Endocrinology | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [return to top] Acromegaly - excessive growth due to the production of excessive growth hormone by the pituitary gland. Adrenal cortex - the outer portion of the adrenal gland that secretes hormones that are vital to the body. Aldosterone - a hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex which affects blood pressure and saline bal...
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis What is Hashimoto's thyroiditis? Thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common form of thyroiditis. Classified as an autoimmune disorder, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune reaction, with antibodies attacking the thyroid gland. The cause of Hashimoto thyroiditis is unknown. What are the symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis? The following are the most common symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. However, each ind...
Home Page - Endocrinology
Topic Index Anatomy of the Endocrine System Statistics Hormones and the Endocrine System Pituitary Gland: Location and Function Pituitary Gland Disorders Pancreas: Location and Function Pancreas Disorders Adrenal Glands: Location and Function Adrenal Gland Disorders Thyroid Gland: Location and Function Thyroid Function Tests Thyroid Disorders Parathyroid Glands: Location and Function Parathyroid Gland Disorders Reproductive Glands Type 1 Diabetes Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) Glossary The endocrine sys...
Hormones and the Endocrine System
Hormones and the Endocrine System The endocrine system uses hormones to control and coordinate your body's internal balance or homeostasis, its energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and environmental factors. Consider the following hormones and their role in the workings of the endocrine system: Where the hormone is produced Hormone(s) secreted Hormone function Adrenal glands Aldosterone Regulates salt and water balance Adrenal glands Corticosteroid Controls...
Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism What is hyperparathyroidism? Hyperparathyroidism is caused by overactive parathyroid glands. Parathyroid glands are tiny glands located next to the thyroid. Overactive parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone, which in turn stimulates increased levels of calcium in the bloodstream. Thyroid Gland - Click to Enlarge The excess calcium released by the bones can lead to osteoporosis and osteomalacia (both bone-weakening diseases). Other results of hyperparathyroidism are k...
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism What is hyperthyroidism? Hyperthyroidism means overactivity of the thyroid gland, resulting in too much thyroid hormone in the bloodstream. The oversecretion of thyroid hormones leads to overactivity of the body's metabolism. Thyroid Gland - Click to Enlarge What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism? The following are the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: Nervousness Irritability Increased perspirat...
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) What is hypoglycemia? Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by a glucose (blood sugar) level that is too low to effectively fuel the body's blood cells. Glucose is the main source of fuel for the body. According to the National Institute for Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the ideal range of blood sugar is approximately 70 to 120 mg/dL (milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood). Blood sugar levels under 70 mg/dL are too low and are considered unhealthy....
Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism What is hypoparathyroidism? Hypoparathyroidism is caused by underactive parathyroid glands. Parathyroid glands are small glands located next to the thyroid. Underactive parathyroid glands do not produce enough parathyroid hormone. This causes low levels of calcium in the bloodstream. The low levels of calcium lead to muscle spasms, or tetany, an increased excitability of the nerves, and disturbances in heart rhythm. Causes of hypoparathyroidism include accidental removal of a parathyr...
Hypopituitarism
Hypopituitarism What is hypopituitarism? Hypopituitarism, also called an underactive pituitary gland, is a condition that affects the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland--usually resulting in a partial or complete loss of functioning of that lobe. The resulting symptoms depend on which hormones are no longer being produced by the gland. Because the pituitary gland affects the other endocrine organs, effects of hypopituitarism may be gradual or sudden and dramatic. What are the symptoms of hypopituitari...
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism What is hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid is underactive (for example, it is producing an insufficient amount of thyroid hormones). Thyroid Gland - Click to Enlarge Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder. Severe hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, characterized by dry, thickened skin, coarse facial features, confusion, decreased body temperature, decreased heart rate, and, possibly, coma. What causes hypothyroidism? The mo...
Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy
Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy Facts about hypothyroidism and pregnancy Hypothyroidism is a condition marked by an underactive thyroid gland and may occur during pregnancy. Unfortunately, many symptoms of hypothyroidism are masked by symptoms of pregnancy, such as fatigue, weight gain, and abnormal menstruation and, as a result, the disease may be left undetected and untreated. In addition, the risk for developing hypothyroidism increases with age, which is significant because more and more women are dela...
Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic Syndrome What is metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is a condition that includes the presence of a cluster of risk factors specific for cardiovascular disease. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), metabolic syndrome significantly raises the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and/or stroke. Most people who have metabolic syndrome have insulin resistance. The body makes insulin to move glucose (sugar) into cells for use as energy. Obesity, commonly found...
Online Resources - Endocrinology
Online Resources - Endocrinology This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your health care provider. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contain...
Overactive Adrenal Glands/Cushing's Syndrome
Overactive Adrenal Glands/Cushing's Syndrome What are overactive adrenal glands? When adrenal glands produce excessive amounts of certain hormones, they are called "overactive." Symptoms and treatment depend on which hormones are being overproduced: Androgenic steroids (androgen hormones). An overproduction of androgenic steroids, such as testosterone, can lead to exaggerated male characteristics in both men and women, such as hairiness of the face and body, baldness, acne, deeper voice, and more muscul...
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer What is pancreatic cancer? Pancreatic cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. According to the American Cancer Society, about 44,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer and about 38,000 deaths are expected in 2011. Pancreatic cancer occurs when malignant cells grow out of control. Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include: Age - most pancreatic cancer occurs in people over the age of 45. Smoking - heavy cigarette smokers are two or three times more likely than no...
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis What is pancreatitis? Pancreatitis is the inflammation and autodigestion of the pancreas. Autodigestion describes a process whereby pancreatic enzymes destroy its own tissue leading to inflammation. The inflammation may be sudden (acute) or ongoing (chronic). Acute pancreatitis usually involves a single "attack," after which the pancreas returns to normal. Severe acute pancreatitis can be life threatening. In chronic pancreatitis, permanent damage occurs to the pancreas and its function, of...
Parathyroid Tumor
Parathyroid Tumor What is a parathyroid tumor? A parathyroid tumor is a growth inside a parathyroid gland. The parathyroid glands are 4 small glands located in the neck near the thyroid gland. Parathyroid tumors may cause increased levels of parathyroid hormones secreted by the parathyroid glands, leading to increased levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). Most parathyroid tumors are benign (noncancerous) adenomas. Cancers of the parathyroid are very rare. What are symptoms of a parathyroid tum...
Pituitary Tumors
Pituitary Tumors What are pituitary tumors? The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized organ in the brain behind the back of the nose. The pituitary gland produces hormones that affect many other glands in the body. Most pituitary tumors are noncancerous (benign). However, because of the location of the pituitary gland, at the base of the skull, many pituitary tumors will press against the optic nerves, causing vision problems. In addition, pituitary tumors that produce excess amounts of hormone will ove...
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Polycystic ovary syndrome (also called PCOS or Stein Leventhal syndrome) is the most common hormonal and reproductive problem affecting women of childbearing age. It's estimated that about 5 percent of women in the U.S. have this disorder. Click Image to Enlarge PCOS has been defined as the presence of any two of the following characteristics: Lack of ovulation for an extended period of time High levels of androgens (male hormone...
Postpartum Thyroiditis
Postpartum Thyroiditis What is postpartum thyroiditis? In addition to playing an important role in the development of a growing fetus, proper thyroid hormone levels also help to minimize the chance of any thyroid complications after delivery. One particular postpartum complication is postpartum thyroiditis, a condition characterized by an inflamed thyroid gland. Postpartum thyroiditis is not a typical infection, however. The gland does become inflamed, but the cause is unknown. Postpartum thyroiditis is...
Reproductive Glands
Reproductive Glands Anatomy of the ovaries A woman's ovaries are located on both sides of the uterus, below the opening of the fallopian tubes (tubes that extend from the uterus to the ovaries). Function of the ovaries In addition to producing egg cells, the ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, which affect many of the female characteristics and reproductive functions. The levels of secreted estrogen and progesterone are controlled by gonadotropic hormones produced by the pituitary gland. The ovar...
The Adrenal Glands
The Adrenal Glands Anatomy of the adrenal glands Adrenal glands, which are also called suprarenal glands , are small, triangular glands located on top of both kidneys. An adrenal gland is made of two parts--the outer region is called the adrenal cortex and the inner region is called the adrenal medulla . Function of the adrenal glands The adrenal glands work interactively with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. For example, for the adrenal gland to produce corticosteroid hormones: The hypothalamus pr...
The Pancreas
The Pancreas Click Image to Enlarge Anatomy of the pancreas The pancreas is an elongated, tapered organ located across the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach. The right side of the organ--called the head--is the widest part of the organ and lies in the curve of the duodenum, the first division of the small intestine. The tapered left side extends slightly upward--called the body of the pancreas--and ends near the spleen--called the tail. The pancreas is made up of two types of glands: Exocrine. The...
The Parathyroid Glands
The Parathyroid Glands Anatomy of the parathyroid glands The parathyroid glands are two pairs of small, oval-shaped glands located adjacent to the two thyroid gland lobes in the neck. Parathyroid Glands - Click to Enlarge Function of the parathyroid glands Parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which plays a role in the regulation of calcium levels in the blood. Precise calcium levels are important in the human body, since small deviations can cause muscle and nerve impairment. The parathyroid ...
The Pituitary Gland
The Pituitary Gland Anatomy of the pituitary gland Click to enlarge The pituitary gland is sometimes called the "master" gland of the endocrine system because it controls the functions of the other endocrine glands. The pituitary gland is no larger than a pea, and is located at the base of the brain. The gland is attached to the hypothalamus (a part of the brain that affects the pituitary gland) by nerve fibers. The pituitary gland itself consists of three sections: The anterior lobe The intermediate lo...
The Thyroid Gland
The Thyroid Gland Anatomy of the thyroid gland Thyroid Gland - Click to Enlarge The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, below the larynx (voice box). The small, two-inch gland consists of two lobes, one on each side of the windpipe, connected by tissue called the isthmus. The thyroid tissue is made up of two types of cells: follicular cells and parafollicular cells. Most of the thyroid tissue consists of the follicular cells, which secrete iodine-containing hormones called thyroxine (T4) ...
Thyroid Disorders in Women
Thyroid Disorders in Women Functions of the thyroid gland The thyroid gland, which plays an important role in the body's metabolism, secretes several hormones: thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), and calcitonin. Other functions of the thyroid include regulating body heat and bone growth. The pituitary gland and thyroid gland work hand-in-hand. If the thyroid is releasing below-average levels of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism), the pituitary gland typically secretes more thyroid-stimulating hormones ...
Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid Function Tests What are thyroid function tests? Thyroid function tests are common procedures performed to determine how well the thyroid is functioning. Some of the most common thyroid function tests include the following: Blood tests. To measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood which helps determine thyroid function. High levels of the hormone indicate an underactive thyroid. In addition, a blood test can measure levels of hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine ...
Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy
Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy What is thyroid hormone therapy? Thyroid hormone therapy is the use of synthetic thyroid hormones to raise abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones. Often used to treat an underactive thyroid that is secreting little or no thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone therapy is usually administered in pill form. The most commonly prescribed thyroid hormone replacement is pure synthetic thyroxine (T4). Who needs thyroid hormone therapy? Thyroid hormone therapy is generally presc...
Thyroid Tumor Overview
Thyroid Tumor Overview What are thyroid tumors? The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck at the base of the throat. Thyroid tumors are either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) growths. Examples of benign tumors are adenomas, which may secrete thyroid hormone. Malignant tumors are more rare and are more common in women than in men. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), about 48,000 cases of thyroid cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the US in 2011. What are thyroid...
Topic Index - Endocrinology
Topic Index - Endocrinology Endocrinology Home Anatomy of the Endocrine System Statistics Hormones and the Endocrine System Pituitary Gland: Location and Function Disorders Acromegaly Diabetes Insipidus Empty Sella Syndrome Hypopituitarism Tumors Pancreas: Location and Function Disorders Pancreatitis Pancreatic Cancer Adrenal Glands: Location and Function Disorders Underactive Adrenal Glands / Addison's Disease Overactive Adrenal Glands / Cushing's Syndrome Tumors / Pheochromocytoma Thyroid Gland: Locat...
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes What is type 1 diabetes? Type 1 diabetes may also be known by a variety of other names, including the following: Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) Juvenile diabetes Brittle diabetes Sugar diabetes There are two forms of type 1 diabetes: Idiopathic type 1 diabetes. This refers to rare forms of the disease with no known cause. Immune-mediated diabetes. An autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system destroys, or attempts to destroy, the cells in the pancreas that produce ...
Underactive Adrenal Glands/Addison's Disease
Underactive Adrenal Glands / Addison's Disease What is Addison's disease? Addison's disease is the result of an underactive adrenal gland. An underactive adrenal gland produces insufficient amounts of cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that helps to control the body's use of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, suppresses inflammatory reactions in the body, and affects immune system functions. Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that controls sodium and potassium in the blood. Addison's ...
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