Pediatric Endocrinology

What is the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and What Diseases Does It Cover?

The Department of Pediatric Endocrinology is a specialized sub-branch of pediatrics that diagnoses, treats and monitors hormonal disorders and metabolic diseases in childhood and adolescence. This department examines the functions of the endocrine system in children and diseases related to this system.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many endocrine disorders can be successfully managed and children's quality of life can be improved. Increasing the awareness of families and primary health care services about pediatric endocrinology is of great importance for public health.

About the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology

The Department of Pediatric Endocrinology is a specialized branch of medicine that diagnoses, treats and monitors hormonal disorders and metabolic diseases in childhood and adolescence. This department deals with growth and development processes, puberty disorders, thyroid diseases, diabetes and other endocrine system disorders.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), childhood endocrine disorders are among the major health problems affecting millions of children worldwide. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term complications of these diseases.

Who is a Pediatric Endocrinologist and What Are Their Duties?

A pediatric endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating health problems related to children's hormonal systems. Pediatric endocrinologists specialize in this field by completing pediatric training and then receiving advanced training in endocrinology. Their duties include:

• Assess and treat growth and developmental problems
• Management of diabetes, thyroid and other metabolic diseases
• Diagnosis and treatment of hormonal imbalances
• Managing adolescent problems
• Long-term follow-up of patients and updating treatment plans when necessary

What Diseases Does Pediatric Endocrinology Cover?

The pediatric endocrinology department covers various hormonal and metabolic disorders seen in children. The main diseases include:

• Growth Hormone Deficiency: A hormone deficiency that prevents children from growing to normal height.
• Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are problems with insulin production or use.
• Pubertal Disorders: Problems with early or delayed puberty.
• Thyroid Diseases: Thyroid dysfunctions such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
• Adrenal Diseases: Disorders related to hormone production by the adrenal glands.
• Metabolic Diseases: Inherited metabolic disorders and obesity.

The pediatric endocrinology department also includes diseases such as obesity, excessive hair growth, menstrual irregularity, calcium and bone metabolism disorders, sexual development disorders, micropenis, undescended testicles, suspicious genital structures and Cushing's syndrome.

What Are Pediatric Endocrinology Examinations?

Pediatric Endocrinology examinations may vary depending on the patient's complaints and clinical findings. However, they generally include the following steps:

• Detailed history taking
• Physical examination (height, weight, body mass index measurement, puberty assessment)
• Blood tests (hormone levels, sugar and cholesterol levels, etc.)
• Imaging methods (ultrasound, MRI, bone age radiography when necessary)
• Special tests (growth hormone stimulation test, oral glucose tolerance test, etc.)

What Methods Are Used in Pediatric Endocrinology Treatments?

Pediatric endocrinology treatments vary depending on the type and severity of the disease. Some of the treatment methods used are:

• Hormone Therapy: Hormone replacement therapy is used to correct deficiencies of growth hormone, thyroid hormone and other essential hormones.
• Insulin Therapy: Blood sugar control is achieved with insulin injections in children with type 1 diabetes.
• Diet and Exercise Plans: Healthy nutrition and physical activity programs are created in the management of metabolic diseases and obesity.
• Medical Treatments: Appropriate drug treatments are applied for thyroid diseases and adrenal disorders.
• Surgical Interventions: Rarely, surgical intervention may be required for structural problems in the hormonal glands.

When Should You Go to the Pediatric Endocrinology Department?

It is recommended to consult a pediatric endocrinology department in the following cases:

• Significant shortness or height compared to peers
• Excessive increase or decrease in weight gain
• Signs of early or late puberty
• Symptoms of diabetes such as frequent urination and excessive thirst
• Swollen thyroid gland or signs of thyroid dysfunction
• Abnormalities in bone development

Early referral to an endocrinologist for a child showing signs of growth retardation may have a positive effect on the treatment process.

What is Done During a Pediatric Endocrinology Examination?

During a pediatric endocrinology examination, the child's general health and hormonal status are evaluated in detail. The process usually includes the following steps:

• Evaluation of Medical History and Complaints: The child's medical history, family history and symptoms are examined in detail.
• Physical Examination: Height, weight and body proportions are measured, growth curves are evaluated.
• Laboratory Tests: Hormone levels and other biochemical parameters are measured.
• Imaging and Other Tests: When necessary, imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI or CT are performed.
• Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Based on the results obtained, a definitive diagnosis is made and an appropriate treatment plan is created.