An endocrinologist is a specially trained doctor who diagnoses and treats diseases that affect the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal and other glands. An endocrine disorder can affect important functions such as metabolism, reproduction, nutrition, growth and development, and it can have long-term consequences for your child. The goal of treatment is to help restore the normal balance of hormones in the body. Endocrinologists often treat conditions such as diabetes, thyroid diseases, metabolic disorders, over- or underproduction of hormones, lack of growth (short stature), abnormal weight gain and early or delayed puberty. Your child may be referred to an endocrinologist if the pediatrician identifies symptoms that may be related to the endocrine system and require a closer look.
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