Endocrine abnormalities in morbid obesity

Abstract

Recognizing the hormonal changes that accompany morbid obesity may prevent inappropriate investigations and treatments as well as provide rational approaches to reducing the morbidity and mortality of this disorder. The secondary nature of some of these metabolic changes can be demonstrated by overfeeding nonobese subjects. The crucial role of achieving adequate weight loss is also emphasized by the reversal of most of the hormonal abnormalities following successful weight loss.