The endocrine system implies a set of endocrine glands that are responsible for the formation of hormones in the human body. In turn, hormones affect the state of cells and internal organs thereby regulating their normal functioning. The endocrine system can be divided into 2 types, these are glandular and diffuse system. It is these 2 types endocrine system form an endocrine gland. In turn, after entering the blood, hormones penetrate into all organs.

There are also 2 types of endocrine glands - endocrine and mixed glands.

Endocrine glands include:

The pineal gland is part of the endocrine system. The epiphysis is located in the brain. Violation of the pineal gland leads to diabetes, depression and the formation of tumors;
brain nuclei - participate in the overall control of the entire endocrine system. Malfunctions in the work of the nuclei of the brain can lead to violations of the integral work of the whole organism;
the pituitary gland is a brain appendage, its main function is to secrete a hormone that is responsible for human growth, as well as ensuring full-fledged work nervous system. Violations of the pituitary gland lead to obesity, depletion of the body, slowing down the growth process, cessation of the development of the sex glands;
thyroid gland. This gland is located in the neck. Hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are responsible for creating the body's immunity and affect the nervous system. A small amount of hormones secreted by the thyroid gland, entails disturbances in the work digestive tract, dystrophy, excessive sweating, nervous and mental disorders;
adrenal gland - responsible for the production of adrenaline and norepinephrine. An increased concentration of hormones secreted by the adrenal glands leads to the formation of malignant tumors and early puberty. Insufficient work of the adrenal gland leads to darkening and strong pigmentation of the skin, negatively affects the body's immune system and increases the amount of sugar in the blood.

Mixed glands include:

ovaries (cells of the female reproductive organs) and testicles (cells of the male reproductive organs) - secrete hormones called estrogen, progesterone, testosterone;
pancreas - considered an organ digestive system and secretes a hormone that provides the production of sugar and insulin;
paraganglia are remnants of the adrenaline system. Failures in the work of paraganglia leads to the formation of tumors;
parathyroid gland. Hormone parathyroid gland is directly related to the concentration of calcium in the body, which provides normal work motor function;
thymus gland. The gland produces hormones that are responsible for the formation of new cells in the immune system. Lack of hormones produced by the fork gland leads to a strong decline immunity and therefore does not perform the protective function of the body against viruses and bacteria.

Functions of the endocrine system

The endocrine system plays a huge role in the human body. Its functions include:

ensuring the full work of all organs;
participation in all changes in the body;
regulation of the development of the organism;
security reproductive function organism;
metabolic control;
responsible for the emotional and psychological state of a person.

Therefore, any disease of the endocrine system leads to disruption of the integral work of the body. The main function of the glands located in the endocrine system is the release of hormones into the blood.

Violation of work processes in the endocrine system

It is not uncommon that it is difficult for doctors to diagnose an endocrine system disorder, since the signs of this disease are easily confused with the symptoms of another disease. In fact, violations instantly affect the work of the whole organism. It is possible to identify diseases of the endocrine system by numerous symptoms.

Disorders of the endocrine system are divided into 2 types - this is an excess of the function performed or a lack of the function performed. That is, violations occur in the human body, as with increased amount hormones, and at lowered.

Symptoms of endocrine disruption

Violations of the endocrine system instantly cause certain disruptions in the body. Symptoms of an endocrine disorder include:

increase or decrease in body weight. This violation can be noticed when a person adheres to a proper balanced diet, but does not lose excess weight. It is possible to carry out the opposite process. Body weight decreases with a high-calorie diet;
increased sweating- a person begins to sweat profusely even when performing minor physical exertion;
violation of the heart - often the patient has a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath;
an unrelated increase in body temperature - a sharp increase in body temperature for no particularly apparent reason, may indicate a hormonal imbalance in the body;
changes in the condition of the skin increased growth body hair, excessive oiliness or dry skin, acne;
pressure surges - a sharp increase and decrease in pressure during the day, accompanied by a headache;
impassable fatigue - even after a long rest, a person does not feel in good shape;
disorders in women menstrual cycle- delay, meager discharge, excessively abundant discharge, pain during menstruation - all this is the cause of hormonal failure in the body;
excessive growth of different parts of the body - disproportionately large limbs or other parts of the body, speak of disturbances in the endocrine system;
visual impairment - there is a sharp loss of vision, in the absence of visible reasons;
constant feeling of thirst - often this symptom accompanies all people with diseases of the endocrine system.
memory impairment - forgetfulness or the development of sclerosis indicates an imbalance in the human body;
digestive disorders - occur even with a balanced diet.

Causes of disorders of the endocrine system and their classification

The exact causes of endocrine disruption are not known, but it can presumably be concluded that malfunctions occur due to:

hereditary predisposition to diseases of the endocrine system;
drinking alcohol and smoking;
bad ecology;
not proper nutrition;
stress;
various injuries;
viruses and infections that enter the body;
the presence of tumors in the body;
age-related changes;
great physical activity.

Classification of diseases of the endocrine system

Endocrinological diseases are directly related to the production of hormones, lack or increased concentration which causes disease. The main diseases of the endocrine system are:

- this disease is caused by a violation of the functionality of the thyroid gland, which is not able to produce right amount insulin. A failure occurs in the human body, and it becomes unable to fully absorb fats, carbohydrates and glucose, thereby causing hyperglycemia;
- Another of the diseases of the thyroid gland, the symptoms of this disease are more often observed in women than in men. Lack of hormone produced by the thyroid gland causes a feeling of fatigue and weakness;
goiter - the disease implies an increase in the thyroid gland, several times more than normal. main reason goiter development, this is a small amount of iodine entering the human body;
- the disease manifests itself with excessive production of a hormone that controls the growth process of the body. In an adult, this disease manifests itself in the form of a disproportionate increase in different parts of the body;
- In the process of illness, the immune system secretes antibodies that destroy the thyroid gland.
- symptoms of this disease are convulsions that occur for no reason;
- the disease occurs when there is an insufficient amount of the hormone - vasopressin, which regulates the amount of water in the human body. The symptom of this disease is a feeling of intense thirst;
- occurs in the process increased work adrenal glands. Increased secretion of ardenocorticotropic hormone leads to obesity, changes in the skin, excessive hair growth.

This is not the whole list of diseases associated with the endocrine system. Detection of even minor symptoms should be the reason for contacting a doctor for advice.

Disruption of the endocrine system in children

Diseases of the endocrine system in children are no less common than in adults. It is not easy to diagnose and treat children with endocrine pathologies. The main reasons for the development of diseases in a child are heredity and external factors. Identification of a disease of the endocrine system in a child in the later stages can cause serious problems health in the future. Endocrine pathology causes a violation of the physical, psychological and sexual development of the child. Improper treatment or its complete absence leads to changes in the functioning of the nervous system and the emergence of incurable diseases.

To prevent endocrine diseases in children, it is worth implementing a number of preventive measures, such as:

proper nutrition;
to limit the child from all kinds of stress;
teach your child to exercise.

Endocrine diseases that manifest themselves in children due to genetic prerequisites require constant monitoring by an endocrinologist, monthly examinations and compliance with preventive measures. In difficult cases, the prevention of diseases of the endocrine system in children facilitates the development of the disease and prevents its complications.

Children are considered the main group at risk for endocrine system disorders, because even artificial feeding in the future can cause diabetes.

Symptoms manifested in children with pathologies

Watching your child, you can quickly notice violations of the endocrine system, this may be indicated by the following facts:

use a large number liquids, more than 5 liters per day;
weight loss;
vomit;
lethargy and nervousness;
dry skin;
puffiness;
by three months, the child is not able to hold his head on his own;
delayed puberty or premature sexual development.

At the first detection of the above symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Diseases of the endocrine system in women

According to statistics, women suffer from endocrine disorders more often than men. Lack of treatment endocrine diseases can cause infertility, as hormonal disruptions in female body primarily affects the ovaries. Endocrine disorders in women first lead to inflammatory processes occurring in the genitals, and then lead to infertility. The reason for this can be not only improper production of hormones, but also constant stress that has a detrimental effect on the body.

Diseases in women are treated much more difficult than in men. The presence of endocrine disorders and symptoms in women may not appear immediately. Even the usual menstrual delay may indicate already existing problems with the endocrine system. When the endocrine system is disrupted in women, the pancreas and thyroid gland also fall into the risk zone. Problems with the endocrine system may indicate: fast exchange substances, tachycardia, circulatory disorders in the limbs, increased sweating, nervousness and insomnia. Also, the reason for contacting an endocrinologist can be: obesity, accompanied by rapid weight gain, increased hair growth throughout the body, a sharp deterioration in vision.

To prevent endocrine diseases, it is enough to adhere to proper nutrition And active image life, avoid nervous breakdowns. Often, during examination, an endocrine disease is detected after 50 years. It's connected with age-related changes organism and restructuring hormonal background. At the same time, hot flashes, insomnia, pressure surges, and a nervous state cause discomfort to a woman.

During pregnancy, strong hormonal changes occur in a woman's body, which can lead to a threatened miscarriage, complications during childbirth, low lactation, and depression. A completely untreated course of treatment is quite dangerous, it can lead to the development of asthma, infertility, diabetes mellitus and the formation of malignant tumors. Treatment of abnormalities in the endocrine system in women is mainly carried out hormonal drugs which may be of natural origin or artificially created.

Diseases of the endocrine system in men

Hormonal disorders in men often manifest themselves either in adolescence or in old age. Cause hormonal imbalance there is an insufficient amount of testosterone in the body. An insufficient amount of the hormone in the blood may be associated with congenital pathology, harmful effects on the body of alcohol, nicotine or drugs, the development of infectious diseases in the body. The symptoms that appear in men during an endocrine disruption are similar to general symptoms in women and children.

Diagnosis of disorders in the work of the endocrine system

Only an endocrinologist can make a diagnosis. To identify pathologies of the endocrine system, the patient is prescribed tests for the amount of sugar in the body and the level of hormones in the blood, a urine test. The passage of ultrasound can also indicate the presence of an endocrine system disease. How additional view examinations may be ordered CT scan and x-ray. Testing for the concentration of the hormone in the blood can show:

gland dysfunction;
causes of menstrual irregularities;
the presence or absence of diabetes;
the cause of various diseases associated with disruptions in the endocrine system.

For hormone analysis to show correct result, before carrying it out, you should adhere to certain rules. A blood test for hormones is taken in the morning and on an empty stomach. A couple of days before the procedure, you should exclude physical activity, the use of alcohol and any medications.

Treatment of endocrine diseases

Treatment of endocrine diseases directly depends on the classification of the disease, its stage of development and the age of the patient. There are several ways to treat diseases associated with disruption of the endocrine system:

drug treatment- implies a reception: hormones, vitamins;
magnetotherapy - the impact on the human body due to the magnetic field;
taking homeopathic medicines. Thanks to magnets, processes occur in human cells that have a positive effect on them;
physiotherapy. The use of physiotherapy as a method of treatment is quite effective. It contributes to the normalization of metabolism, strengthening the body and accelerating the recovery period;
surgical intervention - carried out only in the presence of malignant tumors;
endocrine and immune therapy - therapy is aimed at general strengthening body immunity.

Often, the pathology of the endocrine system is detected in the later stages of development, which complicates the treatment process. . The main goal of the treatment of diseases associated with the endocrine system is the normalization of hormonal levels, the complete elimination of the symptoms of the disease and the prevention of remission. Drug treatment of the disease can only be prescribed by a doctor. It directly depends on the form of the disease and its development.

Prevention of endocrine diseases

Disease of the endocrine system may be prevented if preventive measures are observed. Prevention of endocrine diseases includes:

maintaining proper nutrition - the use of cereals, fruits and vegetables. Eating should be frequent and in small quantities. Avoid fatty and fried foods. A positive impact will be the exclusion of products with a high sugar content;
active lifestyle – exercise lungs exercise. Fatigue should be avoided;
getting rid of bad habits- giving up alcohol and smoking;
avoid harmful factors environment - long-term impact sun rays has a detrimental effect on the body;
visiting an endocrinologist - taking tests to determine the hormonal background;
prevention stressful situations- often a stressful state gives serious hormonal disruptions;
the use of herbal medicine - the use of decoctions and tinctures from medicinal herbs and plants. Will beneficial use tinctures and decoctions from: sage, goose cinquefoil, oregano;
maintaining adequate sleep.

Medications for the prevention of diseases of the endocrine system should contain iodine, vitamins and useful trace elements.

Prevention of diseases of the endocrine system should be carried out regardless of hereditary predisposition, since violations in the formation of hormones can occur in any person. Early detection of endocrine disorders will help to avoid long treatment and warns against the development of dangerous diseases.

Causes of disruption of the endocrine system

Hormonal disorders can occur in both congenital and secondary disorders.

Congenital can be hereditary, or be formed under the influence of adverse factors during the entire period of intrauterine development of the baby.

They consist in the formation of defects, insufficient differentiation of gland tissues, defects in the production of specific enzymes.

Secondary disorders occur in various diseases that are not directly related to the endocrine system.

Primary Violations

This group includes pathologies associated directly with disorders in the gland itself.

They can occur under the influence of both hereditary diseases (for example, fermentopathy), and with autoimmune lesions, malignant neoplasms, infectious processes.

An important role in the disruption of the endocrine system is played by environmental factors - consequences malnutrition, occupational hazards, abuse of alcohol and toxic substances, drugs lead to atrophy of gland tissues, reduce the level of hormone synthesis, stimulate hyperproduction.

Thus, a lack of iodine in food causes an increase in the thyroid gland, and a large intake of sugars causes the pancreas to increase the amount of insulin in the blood.

Glandular dysfunction may occur after trauma or surgical interventions.

Peripheral forms of endocrine disorders

This group of diseases is not directly related to the endocrine glands. In most cases, the function of the gland remains normal and the level of synthesized hormones is within the required range. Nevertheless, endocrine disruption in the body occurs. This is due to such violations as:

rapid destruction or inactivation of hormones in the bloodstream;
pathology of transport proteins, which should deliver biologically active substances to tissues;
absence or defect of receptors in organ cells;
violation of the processing and utilization of hormones in the liver.

human endocrine system

The destruction of normally produced hormones is associated with autoimmune processes, when the body perceives its own substances as foreign and produces antibodies to them. As a result, when the hormone enters the blood or lymph, its own cells destroy it. Similar phenomena observed in cancer.

Violation of the transport of hormones and the susceptibility of cells to them is more often explained by genetic defects and is associated either with not enough proteins or with their irregular structure, pathological structure or shifts in chemical composition within the cell itself. The autoimmune mechanism of receptor damage, as well as the competitive action of some viruses, cannot be excluded.

A special case of the peripheral form of endocrine pathologies is a violation of the interaction of hormones different glands. Thus, a lack of thyroidin reduces the activity of somatotropic hormone, and a low level of cortisol makes it impossible for adrenaline to be realized.

What diseases cause endocrine disorders?

The list of ailments in which the malfunction of the endocrine glands is possible is huge.

Diseases can be associated with both deficiency and hyperfunction.

Pathology depends on which gland suffers, for example:

pituitary gland - pituitary dwarfism, dispituitarism, acromegaly, etc.;
thyroid - hypo- and hyperthyroidism, thyroiditis, goiter;
pancreas - diabetes mellitus;
genital - hirsutism, androgenism, infertility, etc.

Any diseases: infectious, metabolic, immune, inflammatory strike the endocrine system. So, pancreatitis can provoke improper production of insulin, and hepatitis can disrupt the utilization of hormones in liver cells.

Inflammatory processes in the ovaries in women reduce the production of estrogens and progesterone and lead to cycle disorders and infertility. infectious childhood disease parotitis adversely affects the work of the testicles in boys, also leading to infertility.

Which doctors to contact?

Put correct diagnosis and determine treatment tactics when symptoms appear hormonal disorders in the body can only be a specialist doctor.

A qualified endocrinologist will prescribe a set of examinations and identify the level of violations.

But sometimes one hormonal correction is not enough and treatment and supervision of several doctors of a different profile is necessary.

It can be: a neurologist, a gynecologist, a urologist, a cardiologist, an infectious disease specialist. Only the impact on the cause - the main disease that caused endocrine disorders, will allow you to quickly and fully carry out treatment and fully restore lost functions.

In cases congenital diseases and hereditary defects, it will not be possible to completely eliminate violations, however, it will not be possible to maintain normal level The functioning of the endocrine system and the whole organism as a whole is possible throughout life, without reducing its quality. When planning a pregnancy, it is imperative to get a consultation with a geneticist in order to analyze genetic profiles partners and minimize the risk of having a baby with a hereditary endocrine pathology.

Of great importance in the prevention of hormonal disorders is the maintenance right image life.

Good nutrition with enough vitamins, microelements, proteins, fresh air, regular moderate physical activity, quitting smoking and alcohol - all this allows the body to stay healthy. Attentive attitude to yourself, regular visits to the doctor with a dispensary examination will help to avoid endocrine system disorders.

Causes and symptoms of diseases of the endocrine system

Diseases of the endocrine system can appear due to too much hormone production. The disease is caused by dysfunction of the endocrine glands. There are cases when one gland of the endocrine system produces too many hormones, while others produce them insufficiently.

Hypofunction is an uneven secretion of the endocrine glands. It can occur due to neoplasms, injuries or illness.

Hyperfunction - excessive activity of the gland - can be caused by autoimmune reactions of the body or tumors of the glands.

Diseases of the endocrine system can manifest themselves through:

fast fatigue;
weight change;
sudden mood changes;
constant thirst;
decreased sexual desire;
urge to urinate.

Types of diseases of the endocrine system

Acromegaly. This disease appears due to excess secretion of growth hormone. In middle-aged people, this disease proceeds very slowly, so it is difficult to diagnose and recognize it. Its symptoms are: abnormal growth of the feet and hands, and there may also be some pathology in the growth of facial features, such as the nose, chin, and forehead. Those who suffer from acromegaly may be prone to enlargement of the spleen, liver, and kidneys. Complications acromegaly Key words: hypertension, diabetes, heart disease.

Addison's disease. This disease occurs due to the fact that the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormone cortisol. Its symptoms: loss of appetite, sudden weight loss, fast fatiguability. Lack of cortisol can also cause irritability and salty cravings. Complications Addison's disease: darkening of the skin color of some parts of the body, hyperpigmentation.

hypercalcemia. This is a disease of the endocrine system, which is caused by an increase in the level of calcium in the blood. Calcium levels depend on parathyroid hormone and vitamin D. Its symptoms are nausea, bone pain, hypertension, kidney stones, spinal curvature, irritability, loss of appetite, muscle atrophy.

Hypoparathyroidism. This is a syndrome of inferiority of the functions of the parathyroid glands, which occurs due to insufficient levels of calcium in the blood. For this disease to manifest itself, sometimes you need to wait years. Symptoms hypoparathyroidism: spasms in the muscles, tingling in the hands.

hypopituitarism(or hypofunction of the pituitary gland). This disease of the endocrine system can sometimes be congenital due to the pathology of the formation of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. It can be caused by a brain infection, a brain tumor, an infection of the tissues around the brain.

growth hormone deficiency. Man suffering from growth hormone deficiency, has a slender build and has a baby face. At the same time, the growth rate is slowed down. Distinguish partial or total deficit this hormone. This disease is diagnosed with a blood test that measures the concentration of growth hormone. X-rays of the wrists and hands are also considered to help determine bone growth. Treat this disease of the endocrine system by injecting growth hormone. Often, the course of treatment continues for a very long time, several years, until an acceptable result is achieved.

Goiter Hashimoto(differently - chronic lymphomatous thyroiditis). One of the varieties chronic thyroiditis, which appears as a result of the reaction immune system for the functioning of the thyroid gland. This disease of the endocrine system is inherited. Its symptoms are: resistance to cold, weight gain, hair loss, dry skin. Women have irregular and heavy menstruation.

Itsenko-Cushing syndrome. This disease of the endocrine system appears due to excessive production of cortisol. This disease is the complete opposite. Addison's disease. Syndrome symptoms Itsenko-Cushing: fatigue, upper body obesity, increased bone fragility, muscle weakness.

Diseases of the endocrine system can lead to:

to dysplasia;
to diabetes
to disrupt the proper functioning of the thyroid gland;
to the development of osteoporosis;
to increase the level of triglycerol and cholesterol in the blood.

Triggers of diseases of the endocrine system: autoimmune disorders, steroid use, tumors.

Treatment of diseases of the endocrine system

If diseases of the endocrine system are caused by insufficient activity of the glands, then hormone replacement therapy is prescribed. If the glands, on the contrary, are too active, then the pathological tissues are removed.

Endocrine system - a set of specific endocrine glands (endocrine glands) and endocrine cells.

It includes:

pituitary;
epiphysis (pineal gland);
thyroid gland;
parathyroid glands;
adrenal glands;
APUD system, or diffuse system, formed by hormonal cells scattered in various bodies and body tissues - endocrine cells of the gastrointestinal tract, producing gastrin, glucagon, somatostatin, etc.;
interstitial cells of the kidneys, producing, for example, prostaglandin E 2 , erythropoietin, and similar endocrine cells of some other organs.

endocrine cell - a cell that synthesizes and secretes a hormone into the liquid media of the body - blood, lymph, intercellular fluid, cerebrospinal fluid.
Hormone - a biologically active substance that circulates in body fluids and has a specific effect on certain target cells.

The chemical structure of hormones is different. Most of them are peptides (proteins), steroid substances, amines, prostaglandins.

Hormone target cell - This is a cell that specifically interacts with a hormone with the help of a receptor and responds to this by changing its vital activity and function.

GENERAL PATHOLOGY OF THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

Violations of the activity of the endocrine glands manifest themselves in two main forms: hyperfunctions (redundant function) and hypofunction (insufficient function).

The main initial links in the pathogenesis of endocrine disorders can be centrogenous, primary glandular and postglandular disorders.

Centrogenic disorders are caused by a violation of the mechanisms of neurohumoral regulation of the endocrine glands at the level of the brain and the hypothalamic-pituitary complex. The causes of these disorders can be damage to the brain tissue as a result of hemorrhage, tumor growth, the action of toxins and infectious agents, prolonged stress reactions, psychosis, etc.

The consequences of damage to the brain and the hypothalamic-pituitary system are a violation of the formation of neurohormones of the hypothalamus and pituitary hormones, as well as disorders of the functions of the endocrine glands, the activity of which is regulated by these hormones. So, for example, neuropsychic trauma can lead to disruption of the central nervous system, which leads to excessive thyroid function and the development of thyrotoxicosis.

Primary glandular disorders are caused by disorders in the biosynthesis or release of hormones by peripheral endocrine glands as a result of a decrease or increase in the mass of the gland and, accordingly, the level of the hormone in the blood.

The causes of these disorders may be tumors of the endocrine glands, as a result of which an excess amount of the hormone is synthesized, atrophy glandular tissue, including age-related involution, which is accompanied by a decrease in hormonal influences, as well as a deficiency of hormone synthesis substrates, such as iodine, which is required for the formation of thyroid hormones, or an insufficient level of hormone biosynthesis.

Primary glandular feedback disorders can affect the function of the cerebral cortex and the hypothalamic-pituitary system. So, a decrease in thyroid function (for example, hereditary hypothyroidism) leads to disruption of the central nervous system and the development of dementia (thyroid cretinism).

Post glandular disorders caused by violations transport hormones of their reception, i.e., a violation of the interaction of the hormone with a specific receptor of the cell and tissue, and meta6ism hormones, which is to disrupt them biochemical reactions, interactions and destruction.

DISEASES OF THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

DISEASES OF THE HYPOPHYSIS

Pituitary - an endocrine organ that connects the nervous and endocrine systems, ensuring the unity of the neurohumoral regulation of the body.

The pituitary gland consists of the adenohypophysis and the neurohypophysis.

The main functions of the pituitary gland.

Adenohypophysis produces hormones:

follitropin (previously called follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH);
lutropin (formerly luteinizing hormone, LH);
prolactin (formerly luteomammatropic hormone, LTH);
corticotropin (formerly adrenocorticotropic hormone, ACTH);
thyrotropin (formerly thyroid-stimulating hormone. TSH) and a number of other hormones.

neurohypophysis releases two hormones into the blood: antidiuretic and oxytocin.

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), or arginine vasopressin, increases the reabsorption of water in the renal tubules, and in high concentrations causes contraction of glomerular arterioles and an increase in blood pressure in them.

Oxytocin regulates physiological processes in the female reproductive system, increases the contractile function of the pregnant uterus.

DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH HYPERFUNCTION OF THE ADENOGYPOPHISIS

Hyperpituitarism - an excess of the content or effects of one or more hormones of the adenohypophysis.

Causes. In most cases, hyperpituitarism is the result of a tumor of the adenohypophysis or its damage during intoxications and infections.

Hypophyar gigantism manifested by an excessive increase in growth and internal organs. At the same time, height is usually above 200 cm in men and 190 cm in women, the size and mass of internal organs do not correspond to the size of the body, more often the organs are also enlarged, less often they are relatively reduced compared to significant growth.

Rice. 76. Acromegaly. On the right - healthy, on the left - a patient with acromegaly.

In this regard, the development of functional insufficiency of the heart and liver is possible. As a rule, hyperglycemia is observed, often diabetes mellitus; there is an underdevelopment of the genital organs (hypogenitalism). often infertility; mental disorders - emotional instability, irritability, sleep disturbances, decreased mental performance, psychasthenia.

Acromegaly - a disease in which the size of individual parts of the body disproportionately increases (more often - hands, feet), facial features become rough due to an increase in mandible, nose, superciliary arches, cheekbones (Fig. 76).

These changes are combined with violations of the body's vital functions and the gradual development of multiple organ failure.

Syndrome of precocious puberty - a condition characterized by accelerated development of the gonads, the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics, in some cases - the onset of puberty in girls up to 8 years old, in boys up to 9 years old, which, however, is accompanied by mental underdevelopment.

Pituitary hypercortisolism (Itsenko-Cushing's disease) occurs with excessive production of corticotropin, which leads to hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex. Clinically, Itsenko-Cushing's disease is manifested by obesity, trophic changes in the skin, arterial hypertension, the development of cardiomyopathy, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, skin hyperpigmentation, and mental disorders.

DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH HYPOFUNCTION OF ADENOHYPOPHYSIS

hypopituitarism - deficiency of pituitary hormones.

Causes.

Hypofunction of the adenohypophysis can develop after meningitis or encephalitis, circulatory disorders in the pituitary gland (thrombosis, embolism, hemorrhage), traumatic brain injury with damage to the base of the skull, and also as a result of protein starvation.

Hypofunction of the adenohypophysis may present with pituitary cachexia, pituitary dwarfism, and pituitary hypogonadism.

Pituitary cachexia develops with total hypofunction of the adenohypophysis, manifested by a decrease in the formation of almost all hormones, which leads to disruption of all types of metabolism and progressive exhaustion.

Pituitary dwarfism , or pituitary nanism , develops in case of somatotropin deficiency and is characterized by a progressive lag in growth and body weight (by the time the body is formed, growth usually does not exceed 110 cm in women and 130 cm in men), an senile appearance of the face (wrinkles, dry and flabby skin), underdevelopment of the genital glands and secondary sexual characteristics in combination with primary infertility. Intelligence in most cases is not impaired, but signs of a decrease in mental performance and memory are often revealed.

Pituitary hypogonadism develops with a lack of sex hormones due to hypofunction of the adenohypophysis. It shows up:

at husband's- eunuchoidism, which is characterized by underdevelopment of the testicles and external genital organs, mild secondary sexual characteristics, high (effeminate) voice timbre, infertility, development of an effeminate figure, obesity;
among women- female infantilism, accompanied by underdevelopment of the mammary glands, late onset of menstruation, menstrual irregularities up to amenorrhea, infertility, asthenic physique, emotional instability.

Hypofunction of the neurohypophysis may result from the development of a tumor in it, inflammatory processes, injuries that manifest diabetes insipidus due to a decrease in the formation of ADH. This disease is characterized by the release of a large amount of urine (from 4 to 40 l / day) with its low relative density. Water loss and rise osmotic pressure blood plasma are accompanied by indomitable thirst ( polydipsia), due to which patients drink large amounts of water.

ADDRENAL DISEASES

Adrenals - paired endocrine glands located at the upper poles of the kidneys and consisting of cortical (bark) and medulla.

Main functions of the adrenal glands.

Three groups of steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal cortex: glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and sex steroids.

Glucocorticoids have an impact on carbohydrate metabolism, have an anti-inflammatory effect and reduce the activity of the immune system.
Mineralocorticoids (in humans, mainly aldosterone) regulate the exchange of electrolytes, primarily sodium and potassium ions.
sex steroids (androgens And estrogens) determine the development of secondary sexual characteristics, and also stimulate the synthesis of nucleic acids and protein.
Diseases caused by hyperfunction of the adrenal cortex (hypercorticism), are associated with an increase in the content of corticosteroids in the blood and is manifested by hyperaldosteronism and Itsenko-Cushing's syndrome.
Hyperaldosteronism usually associated with the development of aldosteroma - a tumor of the adrenal cortex. Plasma sodium retention and hypernatremia are characteristic. Blood pressure rises, cardiac arrhythmias appear.
Itsenko-Cushing syndrome develops, as a rule, with a tumor of the adrenal cortex, which is accompanied by an excess of glucocorticoids. Obesity with deposition of fat on the face, neck, in the area of the upper shoulder girdle is characteristic. Patients have elevated blood pressure and blood glucose levels, often elevated body temperature. Due to the suppression of the immune system, resistance to infections decreases. In boys, the development of secondary sexual characteristics is accelerated and does not correspond to age, but primary sexual characteristics and behavior lag behind in development. Girls have features of a male physique.

Diseases caused by hypofunction of the adrenal cortex, or adrenal insufficiency. Depending on the extent of damage to the adrenal glands, 2 types of adrenal insufficiency are distinguished: total and partial.

Total adrenal insufficiency due to deficiency of all hormones of the adrenal cortex - glucomineralocorticoids and androgenic steroids. At the same time, there is a normal level of catecholamines produced by the adrenal medulla.

Partial adrenal insufficiency - insufficiency of any one class of hormones of the adrenal cortex, most often - mineral or glucocorticoids.

Depending on the nature of the course, acute and chronic total insufficiency of the adrenal cortex is distinguished.

Acute total insufficiency of the adrenal cortex.

Her causes:

Cessation of the introduction of corticosteroids into the body after their long-term use with therapeutic purpose. The resulting state is referred to as corticosteroid withdrawal syndrome or iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency. It is caused by prolonged inhibition of the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system and atrophy of the adrenal cortex.
Damage to the cortex of both adrenal glands, for example, when falling from a great height, bilateral hemorrhage in its tissue with thrombohemorrhagic syndrome, lightning-fast sepsis.
Removal of the adrenal gland affected by a hormone-producing tumor. However, insufficiency develops only with hypo- or atrophy of the cortical substance of the second adrenal gland.

Manifestations:

acute hypotension;
increasing circulatory failure due to acute heart failure, decreased muscle tone arterial vessels, a decrease in the mass of circulating blood due to its deposition. As a rule, acute severe circulatory failure is the cause of death of most patients.

Chronic total insufficiency of the adrenal cortex (Adcison's disease).

Basic cause is the destruction of the tissue of the adrenal cortex as a result of immune autoaggression, tuberculous lesions, tumor metastases, amyloidosis.

Manifestations

muscle weakness, fatigue;
arterial hypotension;
polyuria;
hypohydration of the body and hemoconcentration as a result of a decrease in the volume of fluid in the vascular bed, leading to hypovolemia;
hypoglycemia;
hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes due to increased secretion of ACTH and melanocyte-stimulating hormone by the adenohypophysis, since both hormones stimulate the formation of melanin. Characteristic of primary adrenal insufficiency, in which the pituitary gland is not affected.

Diseases caused by hyperfunction of the adrenal medulla.

Causes: tumors from chromaffin cells of the medulla - benign (pheochromocytomas) and less often malignant (pheochromoblastomas). Pheochromocytomas produce an excess of catecholamines, mainly norepinephrine.

Manifestations of hypercatecholaminemia:

arterial hypertension;
acute hypotensive reactions with short-term loss of consciousness as a result of cerebral ischemia (fainting), developing against the background of arterial hypertension, pallor, sweating, muscle weakness, fatigue;
catecholamine hypertensive crises - periods of significant increase in blood pressure (systolic up to 200 mm Hg and above);
heart rhythm disturbances sinus tachycardia and extrasystole;
hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia.

Insufficiency of the level or effects of adrenal catecholamines as an independent form of pathology is not observed, which is due to the pairing of the adrenal glands and their high compensatory-adaptive capabilities.

THYROID DISEASES

The thyroid gland is a component of the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid gland system. The thyroid parenchyma consists of three types of cells: A-, B- and C-cells.

A-cells, or follicular, produce iodine-containing hormones. They make up the majority of the mass of the gland.
B cells produce biogenic amines (eg serotonin).
C-cells synthesize the hormone calcitonin and some other peptides.

The structural unit of the thyroid gland is the follicle - a cavity lined with A- and C-cells and filled with colloid.

The thyroid gland produces iodine-containing and peptide hormones that regulate the physical, mental and sexual development of the body.

Peptide hormones(calcitonin, katacalcin, etc.) are synthesized by C-cells. An increase in the content of calcitonin in the blood occurs with tumors of the thyroid gland and with kidney failure accompanied by a violation of calcium reabsorption in the tubules of the kidneys.

Rice. 77. Goiter.

Numerous diseases of the thyroid gland, characterized by a change in the level or effects of iodine-containing hormones, are combined into two groups: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism , or thyrotoxicosis, characterized by an excess of the effects of iodine-containing hormones in the body. With the development of hypothyroidism, there is a lack of effects of these hormones.

Diseases of the thyroid gland, accompanied by hyperthyroidism.

These diseases occur when the activity of the gland itself is disturbed or as a result of a disorder in the functions of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. Highest value among these diseases are goiter (struma) and tumors.

Goiter (struma) is a nodular or diffuse growth of thyroid tissue (Fig. 77).

Types of goiter.

By prevalence:

endemic goiter, the cause of which is a lack of iodine in water and food in some regions (in our country, a number of regions of the Urals and Siberia);
sporadic goiter occurring in residents of non-endemic areas.

By morphology:

diffuse goiter. characterized by uniform growth of gland tissue;
nodular goiter, in which the growing tissue of the gland forms dense nodular formations of various sizes;
colloid goiter, which is characterized by the accumulation of colloid in the follicles;
parenchymal goiter, which is characterized by the growth of the epithelium of the follicles with almost total absence colloid.

diffuse toxic goiter(Basedow's disease) accounts for more than 80% of cases of hyperthyroidism. It usually occurs after 20-50 years. women get sick 5-7 times more often than men.

Causes:

hereditary predisposition;
repetitive mental trauma (stress) that causes the activation of the hypothalamus and sympathetic-adrenal system, which leads to an intensive production of thyroid hormones.

Pathogenesis.

The initial link in pathogenesis is an inherited genetic defect in lymphocytes, which causes the synthesis of a large number of “autoaggressive” immunoglobulins by plasma cells. The peculiarity of these immunoglobulins is the ability to specifically interact with receptors for TSH on A-cells of the epithelium of the follicles, stimulate the formation and incretion of triiodothyronine into the blood, an excess of which causes hyperthyroidism or even thyrotoxicosis. The more autoaggressive immunoglobulins in the blood, the more severe thyrotoxicosis, characterized by a significant change in metabolism: an increase in the level of oxidative processes, basal metabolism and body temperature, which leads to sharp increase susceptibility to hypoxia. The breakdown of glycogen, proteins and fats increases, hyperglycemia occurs, and water metabolism is disturbed.

Morphology.

Goiter is usually diffuse, sometimes nodular. Histologically, it is characterized by papillary growths of the epithelium of the follicles and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of the stroma. There is very little colloid in the follicles.

Due to a violation of water metabolism in the heart muscle, vacuolar degeneration develops, the heart increases in size; seen in the liver serous edema and subsequently - sclerosis; frequent dystrophic changes in the nervous tissue, including the brain (thyrotoxic encephalitis). Disturbances in the activity of the nervous system and muscles are caused by the emerging ATP deficiency, depletion of glycogen stores in the muscles, and other metabolic disorders.

clinical picture.

Patients develop a characteristic triad - goiter, bulging eyes (exophthalmos) and tachycardia. Patients lose weight, they are easily excitable, restless; characterized by rapid mood swings, fussiness, fatigue, trembling fingers, increased reflexes. Tachycardia is associated with activation of the sympathetic-adrenal system. Patients have shortness of breath, increased systolic blood pressure, polyuria.

Hypothyroid conditions (hypothyroidism) characterized by insufficient effects of iodine-containing hormones in the body. They occur in 0.5-1% of the population, including newborns.

Causes.

Various etiological factors can cause hypothyroidism, acting either directly on the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, hypothalamic centers, or by reducing the sensitivity of target cells to thyroid hormones.

Cretinism and myxedema are among the most common diseases based on hypothyroidism.

Cretinism - a form of hypothyroidism observed in newborns and in early childhood.

Pathogenesis The disease is associated with a deficiency of the hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine.

Main manifestations: lag of young children in physical and mental development. Patients have dwarf growth, coarse facial features, due to soft tissue swelling; a large tongue that often does not fit in the mouth; wide flat "square" nose with retraction of its back: eyes far apart from each other; big belly, often with umbilical hernia which is indicative of muscle weakness.

Myxedema - a severe form of hypothyroidism, which develops, as a rule, in adults, as well as in older children.

A characteristic symptom of myxedema is swelling of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, in which, after pressing on the tissue, a fossa (mucous edema) does not form.

Cause myxedema is the insufficiency of the effects of thyroid hormones as a result of a primary lesion of the thyroid gland (in 90% of cases), less often - secondary (trauma, surgical removal most of the gland, inflammation, the introduction of drugs that disrupt the synthesis of hormones, iodine deficiency, etc.), as well as in violation of the function of the adenohypophysis and hypothalamus.

Pathogenesis.

The essence of the mucosal edema characteristic of the disease is the accumulation of water not only in the extracellular, but also in the intracellular environment due to changes in the properties of skin proteins and subcutaneous adipose tissue. With a lack of thyroid hormones, proteins are converted into a mucin-like substance with high hydrophilicity. The development of edema is promoted by water retention in the body due to increased reabsorption in the renal tubules with a lack of thyroid hormones.

Patients have reduced heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Oxidative processes are weakened, basal metabolism and body temperature are lowered. The breakdown of glycogen, proteins and fats is reduced; hypoglycemia is noted in the blood. Increased and accelerated development of atherosclerosis and coronary insufficiency due to the weakening of the breakdown of fats, especially cholesterol.

clinical picture.

Characteristic appearance and behavior of the patient: puffy face, dry, cold skin, swollen eyelids, narrowed palpebral fissures. Typical lethargy, apathy, drowsiness, lack of interest in the environment, weakening of memory. Muscle tone is reduced, reflexes are weakened, patients quickly get tired. All these changes are associated with the weakening of excitatory processes in the central nervous system and metabolic disorders.

Exodus. The outcome of myxedema, extremely severe, often fatal, is hypothyroid, or myxedematous coma. It can be the end stage of any type of hypothyroidism when it is inadequately treated or in untreated patients.

DISEASES OF THE PANCREAS

The pancreas performs, in addition to excretory, an important endocrine function that ensures the normal course of metabolism in tissues. Hormone produced in a-cells of the pancreas glucagon, and in r-cells insular apparatus - insulin.

Insulin is intensively produced with an increase in the level of glucose in the blood, it increases the utilization of glucose by tissues and at the same time increases the supply of energy sources in the form of glycogen and fats. Insulin provides an active process of transport of glucose from the extracellular environment into the cell. In the cell itself, it increases the activity of the important hexokinase enzyme, as a result of which glucose-6-phosphate is formed from glucose. It is in this form that glucose enters into various metabolic transformations in the cell. Insulin stimulates the synthesis of glycogen and inhibits its breakdown, increasing the supply of glycogen in tissues, primarily in the liver and muscles.
Glucagon belongs to the group of contrainsular hormones: it stimulates the breakdown of glycogen, inhibits its synthesis and causes hyperglycemia.

Diseases accompanied by hyperfunction of the islet apparatus of the pancreas

An increase in the level of insulin in the body occurs with a hormone-producing tumor of the β-cells of the pancreas - insuloma; with an overdose of insulin used to treat diabetes; with some brain tumors. This state manifests itself hypoglycemia, up to development hypoglycemic coma.

Allocate absolute and relative insufficiency of the islet apparatus. In absolute insufficiency, the pancreas produces little or no insulin. There is a deficiency of this hormone in the body. With relative insufficiency, the amount of insulin produced is normal.

Diabetes - chronic illness, caused by absolute or relative insulin deficiency, leading to disruption of all types of metabolism (primarily carbohydrate, manifested in hyperglycemia ), vascular damage ( angiopathy), nervous system ( neuropathy) and pathological changes in various organs and tissues.

More than 200 million people suffer from diabetes mellitus in the world, and there is a constant trend of increasing incidence by 6-10%, especially in industrial developed countries. In Russia, over the past 15 years, the number of patients with diabetes has doubled and in some regions reaches 4% of the total population, and among people over 70 years of age even exceeds 10%.

Classification of diabetes.

Type I diabetes - insulin dependent, develops mainly in children and adolescents (juvenile diabetes) and is caused by the death of p-cells of the islets of Langerhans.
Type II diabetes - insulin-independent, develops in adults, more often after 40 years, and is caused by insufficient function of β-cells. and insulin resistance (resistance to insulin) tissues.

Causes diseases: hereditary inferiority of r-cells of the islets, often also sclerotic changes in the pancreas that develop as a person ages, sometimes - mental trauma. The development of diabetes can contribute to excessive consumption of carbohydrates. Change can be significant antigenic properties insulin at its normal physiological activity. In this case, antibodies are formed in the body that bind insulin and prevent its entry into the tissue. Importance may have an enzyme-mediated increase in insulin inactivation insulinase, which is activated by the growth hormone of the pituitary gland.

Diabetes mellitus can occur with a significant increase in hormones that reduce the action of insulin and cause hyperglycemia. With a prolonged excess of contrainsular hormones, relative insulin deficiency can become absolute due to the depletion of β-cells of the islet apparatus under the influence of hyperglycemia.

Pathogenesis. Characteristic of diabetes mellitus is an increase in blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia), which can reach up to 22 mmol / l or more at a rate of 4.2-6.4 mmol / l.

Hyperglycemia is caused by a violation of the entry of glucose into cells, a weakening of its use by tissues, a decrease in synthesis and an increase in the breakdown of glycogen and an increase in the synthesis of glucose from proteins and fats. IN normal conditions Complete reabsorption of glucose into the blood occurs in the renal tubules. The maximum concentration of glucose in blood plasma and primary urine, at which it is completely reabsorbed, is 10.0-11.1 mmol / l. Above this level (the elimination threshold for glucose), the excess is excreted in the urine. This phenomenon is called "glucosuria". Glucosuria is associated not only with hyperglycemia, but also with a decrease in the renal excretion threshold, since the process of glucose reabsorption can occur normally only when it is converted into glucose-6-phosphate in the epithelium of the renal tubules. In diabetes, this process is disrupted. In connection with the increased breakdown of fats, keto acids are formed; when they accumulate in the blood, patients develop hyperketonemia. Characteristic of diabetes is also an increase in blood cholesterol levels.

Hyperglycemia leads to an increase in the osmotic pressure of the blood plasma, which in turn causes the loss of water by the tissues (dehydration); this is accompanied by thirst, increased water intake and consequently polyuria. An increase in the level of glucose in the secondary urine and its osmotic pressure reduces the reabsorption of water in the tubules, as a result of which diuresis increases. Hyperketonemia contributes to the occurrence of acidosis and causes intoxication of the body.

pathological anatomy.

Morphological changes in diabetes mellitus are presented quite clearly. The pancreas is somewhat reduced in size, sclerosed. Part of the insular apparatus atrophies and scleroses, the remaining islets undergo hypertrophy.

Vascular pathology is associated with a violation of carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. develop in large arteries atherosclerotic changes, and in the vessels of the microvasculature, damage to their basement membranes, proliferation of the endothelium and perithelium occur. All these changes end with sclerosis of the vessels of the entire microcirculatory bed - microangiopathy. It leads to damage to the brain, digestive tract, retina, peripheral nervous system. Microangiopathy causes the most profound changes in the kidneys. Due to damage to the basement membranes and increased permeability of the glomerular capillaries, fibrin falls out on the capillary loops, which leads to glomerular hyalinosis. Developing diabetic glomerulosclerosis. Clinically, it is characterized by proteinuria and edema, arterial hypertension. The liver in diabetes mellitus is enlarged in size, there is no glycogen in hepatocytes, they develop fatty degeneration. Lipid infiltration is also noted in the spleen and lymph nodes.

Variants of the course and complications of diabetes mellitus.

In people different ages diabetes mellitus has its own characteristics and proceeds in different ways. In young people the disease is characterized malignant course, old people- relatively benign. Diabetes causes a variety of complications. Possible development diabetic coma. Diabetic glomerulosclerosis complicates diabetes by the development of uremia. As a result of macroangiopathy, thrombosis of the vessels of the extremities and gangrene can occur. Decreased body resistance often manifested by activation of a purulent infection in the form of boils, pyoderma, pneumonia, and sometimes sepsis. These complications of diabetes are the most common causes of death in patients.

Activities of all organs human body regulated by the endocrine system. It controls all the most important processes: growth, metabolism, reproduction. Diseases of the endocrine system lead to disruption of many vital functions.

A disorder in the normal activity of one or more glands is called an endocrine disease.

to endocrine glands include:

thyroid;
parathyroid;
thymus (thymus);
pancreas;
adrenal glands;
epiphysis;
hypothalamic-pituitary system;
testes and ovaries (sex glands).

For hormonal problems indicates that a person has one or more of the following symptoms:

excessive weight gain or loss;
cardiopalmus;
increased excitability, irritability;
impaired concentration;
weakness, drowsiness;
constant thirst.

Thyroid diseases

Modern endocrinologists note a steady increase in the number of hormonal dysfunctions. Among them, the most common are thyroid diseases:

hyperthyroidism;
hypothyroidism;
autoimmune thyroiditis;
diffuse toxic goiter (Graves' disease);
endemic and nodular goiter;
thyroid cancer.

hyperthyroidism

A condition caused by hyperfunction of the thyroid gland and expressed by increased production of the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Read more about hyperthyroidism.

It manifests itself with the following symptoms:

weight loss;
temperature rise;
emotional instability;
tachycardia;
an increase in the upper pressure with a simultaneous decrease in the lower pressure;
ophthalmic problems (edema of the eyelids, displacement eyeballs, bifurcation of objects);
general weakness;

The factors provoking the development of the disease, experts include genetic predisposition, female sex and disorders of the immune system.

Treatment is medical and surgically. The optimal method is chosen by the treating endocrinologist, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient. Thyrostatic drugs are prescribed to reduce the production of hormones. medications: thiamazole, methimazole, propylthiouracil.

In case of absence positive result at conservative types therapy, a decision is made on surgical intervention - removal of part of the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism

This is a pathology, expressed in insufficient production of hormones by the thyroid gland. Read more about hypothyroidism.

The disease leads to the following conditions:

weaknesses;
drowsiness;
cold intolerance.

It is often detected late, because the symptoms of hypothyroidism are not pronounced and are mistakenly attributed by doctors to general fatigue or other diseases.

The final diagnosis is made by an endocrinologist based on the collected anamnesis, data laboratory tests(general, biochemical, hormonal blood tests). If necessary, a scintigraphy is prescribed. Depending on the causes of the disease, the disease is successfully treated:

iodine preparations (iodide, betadine);
hormonal drugs (euthyrox, levothyroxine).

In some cases, cardioprotectors, glycosides and neuroprotectors are additionally prescribed.

Diffuse toxic goiter

The most striking clinical manifestations of Basedow's disease include:

bulging eyes;
temperature rise;
sweating;
weight loss;
heartbeat.

The development of goiter can provoke infectious diseases, craniocerebral trauma, psychological upheaval. A large role is played by genetic predisposition in combination with certain environmental factors.

Goiter is treated with mercasolil and methylthiouacil for a long period - from 6 months to 2 years. The daily dose is 30–40 mg, potassium preparations, glucocorticoids, and sedatives are additionally prescribed.

Good results are shown by radioiodine therapy. In some cases, the patient is recommended surgical intervention.

Autoimmune thyroiditis

With progression, patients complain of:

constant weakness;
discomfort when swallowing;
labored breathing.

The development of thyroiditis can provoke:

the presence of a chronic infection in the body;
environmental factors ( elevated content in the environment of iodine, fluorine, chlorine);
radiation;
systematic prolonged exposure to the sun.

The treatment is carried out with hormonal preparations (thyroidin, triiodothyronine, thyroxine), selenium is additionally indicated.

nodular goiter

This is a pathology of the thyroid gland, characterized by the occurrence of nodular neoplasms in it. Often reaches a significant size, turning into a noticeable cosmetic defect, and is accompanied by compression of the internal organs. More about nodular goiter.

The occurrence of goiter is facilitated by:

iodine deficiency;
hereditary factors;
exposure to radioactive and toxic substances;
transferred inflammatory diseases;
the presence of a focus of chronic infections (for example, tonsillitis)

Currently, endocrinologists are of the opinion that with a normal hormonal background and easy breathing specific treatment nodular goiter not required.

In the case of its rapid growth, hormones are prescribed, radioactive iodine treatment is carried out, or surgical intervention is recommended.

endemic goiter

Endemic goiter is a disease that is expressed in an enlarged thyroid gland. The reason for the development is acute deficiency iodine in the body. More about endemic goiter.

In addition to the lack of iodine, the development of the condition is facilitated by:

genetic factors;
water pollution with nitrates, urochrome, which prevents the normal absorption of iodine;
deficiency of a number of trace elements: selenium, zinc, molybdenum, copper and excess calcium;
the use of medicines.

On the initial stage with a slight increase in goiter, it is recommended to take iodine-containing drugs and special diet. With a change in the hormonal background, an appropriate hormone therapy(euthyrox, thyrotomy).

thyroid cancer

In most cases, the initial stage is asymptomatic, later patients experience:

nodular neoplasm and pain in the thyroid gland;
enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes;
weight loss;
cough, hoarseness.

The final diagnosis is made on the basis of biopsy results, ultrasound and MRI data, as well as scintigraphy.

Diseases of the pancreas

The most common disorder is diabetes mellitus. According to statistics, 10% of the world's population suffers from it, and considering it hidden forms, this value can reach 30%.

Diabetes

This pathology is different:

the occurrence of violations of sexual and reproductive function;
an increase in body weight;
increased appetite;
psycho-emotional disorders (insomnia, anxiety, depression).

The therapy is aimed at restoring the natural level of prolactin and is achieved by regular intake of dopamine agonists.

Acromegaly

It develops as a result of a malfunction of the anterior pituitary gland and is expressed by an excessive increase in the skull, hands, feet. The disease occurs after the completion of the growth of the organism, it is characterized by a slow course and a long duration. Read more about acromegaly.

Usually accompanied by:

mental disorder;
sexual dysfunction.

Among the methods of treatment, the most effective is surgery on the pituitary gland.

Gigantism

A similar dysfunction of the pituitary gland at an early age (9-13 years), leads to an abnormal increase in bones and organs. It may be accompanied by pathology of the development of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, gonads. More about gigantism.

diabetes insipidus

Diseases of the adrenal glands

Among the endocrine pathologies caused by impaired functioning of the adrenal glands, there are:

adrenal insufficiency;
hormonally active tumors of the adrenal glands;
hyperaldosteronism.

Adrenal insufficiency

Appears:

pigmentation of the skin of a bronze hue;
weakness;
fainting;

Leads to water-salt imbalance and cardiac disorders, problems of the gastrointestinal tract, psycho-neurological disorders.

Hormonally active adrenal tumors

Experts distinguish 5 types of tumors:

corticoestroma;
corticosteroma;
androsteroma;
aldosteroma;
pheochromocytoma.

The disease is diagnosed in the presence of a combination of symptoms that manifest paroxysmal:

high blood pressure;
muscle trembling;
tachycardia;
headaches;
profuse urination.

Depending on the type of tumor, experts recommend that the patient surgical intervention or chemotherapy.

Hyperaldosteronism

On the initial stage pathology manifests itself:

hypertension;
weakness;
cardiac disorders.

Then the patients are fixed:

swelling;
kidney failure;
ophthalmic problems.

Patients are shown medical treatment. In addition to taking potassium-sparing diuretics, a low-salt diet and the inclusion of potassium-rich foods in the diet are prescribed.