by David James

Created on: December 13, 2010

Endocrine disorders are usually manifested by an over or under production of hormones that manage/control the functions of various body systems. The endocrine system alongside the immune system is the communication system of the human body. Glands and cells that synthesize and release hormones constitute the system. Hormones have a range of influences on the body processes such as reproduction, stress responses, electrolyte balance, blood nutrients, and regulation of body metabolism among other core processes. Major disorders of the endocrine systems are because of hormonal imbalance (excess or less hormonal values). In addition, the disorders are because of resistance to hormones. Various clinically debilitating conditions arise due to the disorders of the endocrine system including diabetes, gonadal failure, glandular hypofunction, autoimmune disease, hypothyroidism, and polyglandular failure system.

Endocrine disorders continue to plague many today. Clinically, the endocrine disorders, primarily diseases of the thyroid gland, pituitary, parathyroids, and the adrenal glands are the most diagnosed and continue to pose a major health problem today. These diseases affect hormone-producing glands leading to either over-production of hormones or reduced production of these hormones. This leads to the endocrine disorders. However, research developing around the context of endocrine disorders show that many of these disorders are either consequences of single-gene mutations or a major genetic proponent.

Treatments of these disorders vary significantly, especially when a specific gland malfunctions. Diabetes, which is a disorder of the endocrine system and affects the pancreas capacity to regulate blood sugar, requires diet management. Gene therapy applies when a malfunction is because of single-gene mutation or a major genetic problem. However, it is ideal a critical review on the case be specified clinically whereby a clinician makes a diagnosis and provides insight on the correct clinical approach to treatment.

Diagnosis of the endocrine disorders has become easier nowadays. In fact, it is easier to diagnose the disorder early in its development. Treatment of the deficiency states for most hormones is possible. Clinically this method has been proved quite successful. Based on recent research success, and the fact that these disorders are due to consequences of gene mutation it is possible to diagnose affected cohorts who are at risk. Therapies used to manage endocrine disorders have proved less effective. Clinicians argue that these therapies, especially hormone over-production are less successful and often cause serious clinical conditions including destruction of the endocrine gland. Treatment of hormone resistance has been used as a treatment but has also proved unsuccessful. Gene therapy and antagonists are preferred clinical approaches.

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