An Overview of the Endocrine System

Excerpt

Endocrinology provides an exciting and challenging opportunity to the examining clinician. Unlike other internal medicine subspecialties, the physician is not dealing with only one anatomic site or organ. Most endocrine disorders do not present as a single visible or palpable abnormality. With the exception of the thyroid and the testicles, the glands cannot be felt. Physical diagnoses rely on astute observations by the examiner, who, after a careful history, has some clue as to the diagnosis. Endocrine diagnosis involves the sequence of history, physical examination, laboratory, and radiologic evaluation. Over the past two decades less emphasis has been placed on the history and physical while relying more heavily on the laboratory evaluation. In this era of cost containment, however, we are encouraged to rely more on clinical judgment. The endocrinologist must apply cognitive skills based on what he or she hears, sees, and feels. Using these data, the appropriate laboratory testing can be performed to complete the evaluation.