Special problems that
relate to hormone imbalance or growth and development
often are referred to an expert for precise
diagnosis and treatment. The
endocrinologist is concerned with the study and function, in health and disease, of the dozens of
different hormones secreted directly into the bloodstream by the endocrine, or duct-less, glands. These substances exert a powerful influence on the way we act, think, and respond to the stresses of life.
The major endocrine
glands include the
pituitary gland (traditionally known as the "master gland" because of its great influence on the other endocrine glands),
parathyroid glands, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, islets of Langerhans (specialized groups of cells in the
pancreas that secrete the
hormone insulin),
ovaries, and
testes.
The body has two complex control
systems that make it
possible for an individual to respond quickly and
efficiently to changes in the environment: the nervous
system and the endocrine (or hormonal) system. Ordinarily
hormones are released into the bloodstream following a
specific stimulus of an
endocrine gland---such as a
nerve impulse or a
change in the concentration of a specific substance
carried to the gland in the blood. In a normal, healthy person the activity of the
hormonal system is kept in delicate balance, but
sometimes things can go wrong. This is where the endocrinologist comes in.
The endocrinologist deals with diseases that are
caused by hormone imbalance. Thus, you are not
likely to see an
endocrinologist if you have a "garden variety" type of ailment such as a cold, sore throat, or strained back. You may need this specialist, however, if you have a goiter that won't regress, or if your
physician suspects an problem in your pituitary function.
Certified endocrinologists have
graduated from medical school,
competed a 3-year residency
internal medicine as well as a 2-year fellowship in endocrinology, and passed
certifying examinations.