Endocrinology Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Subject: Endocrinology
• Main discussion topic: Adrenal gland and its pathology
• Duration: One hour

Endocrinology

• Effects of endocrine cells

  • Causes of height increase and decrease
  • Causes of weight gain and loss
  • Discussion on acromegaly and Cushing's syndrome

• Role of the endocrine system

  • Synthesis, secretion, and response of hormones
  • Comparison with the nervous system

Adrenal Gland

• Structure

  • Glomerulosa, Fasciculata, Reticularis
  • Cortex and Medulla

• Hormones

  • Mineralocorticoid: Aldosterone
  • Glucocorticoid: Cortisol
  • Sex corticoids
  • Role and effects of steroid hormones

Cushing's Syndrome

• Causes

  • ACTH dependent and non-ACTH dependent
  • Due to external steroid intake
  • Diagnosis and tests: Dexamethasone suppression test

• Symptoms

  • Abnormal weight gain
  • Moon face and buffalo hump
  • Skin striae and pigmentation

ACTH Dependent and non-ACTH Dependent Cushing's Syndrome

• ACTH Dependent

  • Pituitary tumor
  • Ectopic ACTH production

• non-ACTH Dependent

  • Excessive steroid production

Diagnosis and Tests

• Diagnostic Criteria
  • ACTH level determination
  • Inferior petrosal sinus sampling

Treatment

• Pharmacological treatment: Metyrapone
• Surgical treatment: Pituitary surgery

Special Mention

• Nelson’s Syndrome: Dangerous pigmentation changes
• Problems with steroid use
  • Risk of infection and neutrophilia
  • Withdrawal should be done gradually

Conclusion

• Thanking at the end of the lecture and future plans
• Expressing the desire to discuss more on steroids and endocrine diseases