🏥 Medical Encyclopedia
PremiumEndocrinology
Major endocrine glands of the body
Endocrinology is the medical specialty that studies the endocrine system, which consists of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream.
🧪 Key Fact: The endocrine system regulates metabolism, growth, reproduction, sleep, and mood through over 50 different hormones.
Major Endocrine Glands
| Gland | Location | Key Hormones | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pituitary | Base of brain | GH, TSH, ACTH | Master gland controls others |
| Thyroid | Neck | T3, T4 | Metabolism, growth |
| Adrenal | Top of kidneys | Cortisol, Adrenaline | Stress response, metabolism |
| Pancreas | Abdomen | Insulin, Glucagon | Blood sugar regulation |
| Ovaries/Testes | Pelvis | Estrogen, Testosterone | Reproduction |
Common Endocrine Disorders
- Diabetes Mellitus: Type 1 (insulin deficiency) and Type 2 (insulin resistance)
- Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Graves' disease
- Adrenal Disorders: Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease
- Osteoporosis: Bone density loss from hormonal imbalance
- Growth Disorders: Dwarfism, Gigantism
Diabetes by the Numbers
- 537 million people live with diabetes worldwide (2024)
- 1 in 10 adults has diabetes
- 90% of cases are Type 2 diabetes
- Diabetes causes 1.5 million deaths annually
"The endocrine system is the body's communication network." – Dr. Robert Williams
Endocrinologist