Endocrinology

Patterns of growth and pubertal development vary widely in healthy children. The challenge to the pediatrician is to identify patients with endocrine disorders that trigger excessive or delayed growth and maturation. The study of growth provides an excellent window through which to view all aspects of pediatrics. Two major educational objectives of the endocrine rotation are to review the expected growth and pubertal milestones and to be able to formulate a diagnostic plan for evaluating slow or accelerated growth. The function and control of thyroid hormone, growth hormone, sex steroids and adrenal hormones will be covered.

This rotation will expose residents and students to the spectrum of growth and developmental disorders and diabetes in children, in the outpatient and inpatient setting. These clinical conditions frequently prompt questions for the clinician in practice.