By Emory Hunt

Endocrinology is an area of medicine that focuses on the study of hormones and the endocrine system. Hormones are chemical messengers which are produced by the different glands in the body that regulate numerous physiological processes, such as growth, metabolism, reproduction and mood. The endocrine system comprises glands such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries (in females), and testes (in males). Endocrinology is involved in the diagnosis of patients with hormonal disorders through a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests and imaging studies. It also deals with the management of medical conditions which include diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, adrenal disorders, disorders of the reproductive system, and pituitary disorders. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of endocrinology which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and postgraduate students.