The body's endocrine system is made up of a complex group of organs, including the:
- Thyroid
- Parathyroid
- Ovaries
- Testes
- Adrenal
- Pituitary
- Hypothalamus
These organs make hormones that help control the body's activities such as reproduction, metabolism, growth and development. Physicians who study the endocrine system are called endocrinologists.
In children, when a hormonal imbalance occurs, it can cause such disorders as:
- Diabetes
- Hypo/hyperthyroidism
- Metabolic disorders
- Over or under production of hormones
- Growth disorders
- Cancer
- Obesity
Virtua endocrinologists diagnose disorders by measuring hormones in the body and testing tissue samples, and then help patients manage their illness with an individualized care plan.
For children and teens with diabetes, Virtua provides an Outpatient Diabetes Education Program. This program offers:
- Diabetes self-management education group class
- Individual diabetes education and nutrition counseling
- Support groups for adults and children