Endocrinology deals with pathologies and dysfunctions related to hormonal alterations (hormones are substances secreted by groups of cells which together constitute the so-called endocrine glands). Once secreted, hormones are introduced into the blood stream until they reach cells and other organ tissues where they carry out a specific function, more or less far from their point of origin. An endocrine gland dysfunction (i.e. a defect of synthesis, secretion, transport or activity of one or more hormones), can therefore lead to an illness which can manifest itself not just or not only locally, but also and mostly with symptoms referring to other organs or even systemic. In particular, Endocrinology relates to the hypophysis and hypothalamus, thyroid, adrenal glands, endocrine pancreas; and besides general metabolism, the mineral metabolism of calcium and phosphorus (homeostasys; primary and secondary osteoporoses); masculine and feminine sexual dysfunctions, but also and mostly endocrinology relates to metabolism, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

The term metabolic syndrome encompasses a series of metabolism-related risk factors (elevated triglycerides and apolipoprotein B, and low levels of HDL cholesterol; high blood pressure, hyperglycemia, prothrombotic conditions, proinflammatory conditions), which are correlated and definitely important in the development of cardiovascular atherosclerotic illnesses. It is certainly related to abdominal obesity and insulin resistance, which are varyingly associated with physical inactivity, age, hormonal imbalance and genetic predisposition.

The presence in our Medical Centre of endocrinologists, who operate in close cooperation with all other specialists involved in the care of each patient, allows a complete multidisciplinary approach to these pathologies.