Endocrinology Services Introduction

Too little thyroid hormone leads to symptoms including cold intolerance, constipation. and weight gain. We work with patients to determine the cause of the thyroid’s failure, and to achieve and maintain a proper level of thyroid hormone replacement. There are many myths about thyroid therapy that cause patients to be improperly dosed. We will discuss the principles of proper thyroid hormone replacement and work with you to find the optimal dose of medicine for you.

Thyroid nodules and cancer are both becoming more common. We have a sophisticated ultrasound unit that permits us to study the structure of the thyroid and to biopsy nodules to determine if cancer is present. These procedures are relatively painless and do not require sedation.

Dr. Abbate is certified in reading bone mineral density studies (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry or DXA). He applies his knowledge of densitometry to determining the appropriate treatment for bone disease and for assessing your response to that treatment.

During his endocrinology fellowship, Dr. Abbate participated in research studies of cholesterol metabolism and has published research papers in this area. Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels are treated by the proper combination of meal planning, physical activity and medications.

Obesity is a serious and growing problem in our country. We can assist by explaining the role proper nutrition and physical activity play in improving your health status and in weight loss. Fad diets are debunked and a lifelong plan for improving your health is developed.

The adrenal gland is at risk for diseases that may cause either excess or deficient hormone production. We understand and have experience with adrenal gland testing and the treatment of adrenal gland disease. We treat Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, pheochromocytoma and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

We have treated children for growth hormone deficiency for over twenty years. Over that time period the methods for treating growth hormone deficiency have greatly improved. We can evaluate and treat for this condition.

Irregular menstrual cycles and excess facial and body hair are common problems in women. Excesses of hormones (prolactin, testosterone, DHEA-S) and insulin resistance are endocrine causes that we can help women overcome. We often work in conjunction with your gynecologist on these problems.

The pituitary gland controls the function of the thyroid, adrenal glands, testicles, ovaries, breasts, and growth hormone production. Diseases of the pituitary can lead to excess or deficient production of hormones by these glands. Treatment of pituitary disease may involve hormone replacement surgery and even radiation therapy. We can assist with the evaluation of your problems and coordination of your care.

Excess production of several different hormones may lead to high blood pressure through a variety of mechanisms. We are experienced in evaluating for the hormone causes of hypertension (hyperaldosteronism. pheochromocytoma, renal artery stenosis) and in treating the underlying problems.

This is not an exhaustive list of endocrine problems. If you or your primary care provider think that you may have a hormone-based problem or a metabolic disorder, we would be pleased to have the opportunity to assist you.