An Endocrinologist is a physician who specialises in diagnosing and treating disorders of the endocrine glands, diabetes mellitus, and metabolism. In Greece, the medical specialisation in Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism requires six years of training following the six-year undergraduate education at medical school.

 

The Endocrine Glands are the organs of the body that produce hormones. Hormones are small molecules with complex and important functions that affect the entire human body. For this reason, disorders of the endocrine glands often have complex manifestations from all systems of the body.

 

The diagnosis of endocrine system disorders is carried out through a detailed medical history, clinical examination, laboratory tests, and often radiological imaging of the affected organ. Treatment aims to control symptoms and restore hormonal balance. Depending on the condition and with the informed consent of the patient, treatment is individualized and may include simple dietary advice, medication, or, in rarer cases, surgical intervention.

 

Some of the most common conditions treated by an Endocrinologist include the following:

 

• Thyroid disorders

• Menopause and menstrual irregularities

• Diabetes

• Hypoglycemia

• Obesity and metabolic disorders

• Osteoporosis

• Lipid disorders

• Hypertension

• Infertility

• Hypofunction or hyperfunction of other endocrine glands, such as the pituitary gland, adrenal glands, parathyroid glands, reproductive organs, etc.

• Cancers of the endocrine glands

 

Research in Endocrinology is constantly evolving and is one of the most fascinating fields in Medical Science. In recent years, discoveries have significantly transformed the understanding and management of endocrine disorders, thereby improving the quality of life for patients with hormonal conditions.

 

Endocrinologists, like every medical professional, have to continuously stay informed about developments in their field as well as in medicine as a whole. This ensures that they can provide patients with the most up-to-date and appropriate solutions for their condition, respecting international guidelines while also tailoring treatments to each patient's individual needs.