What diseases are mainly examined by the Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology

The Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology mainly examines diabetes, thyroid diseases, osteoporosis, obesity, gout and other diseases. These diseases involve issues such as abnormal hormone secretion and metabolic disorders, and require specialized examinations to evaluate organ function.

1. diabetes:

diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease caused by insufficient insulin secretion or dysfunction. The typical symptoms include frequent drinking and urination, weight loss, and a fasting blood glucose level of ≥ 7.0mmol/L or postprandial blood glucose level of ≥ 11.1mmol/L, which can be diagnosed. The examination includes glycated hemoglobin testing, insulin release testing, C-peptide measurement, etc., and long-term monitoring of blood glucose fluctuations is required.

2. Thyroid diseases:

Thyroid dysfunction is divided into two categories: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism patients may experience palpitations, hand tremors, and weight loss, while hypothyroidism is characterized by fatigue, chills, and edema. By detecting the levels of free T3, T4, TSH and other hormones, combined with thyroid ultrasound or nuclear scanning, a clear diagnosis can be made. Autoimmune thyroiditis also requires testing for TPOAb and TGAb antibodies. 3. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by reduced bone mass and destruction of bone microstructure. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard for diagnosis, and a T-value of ≤ -2.5 can confirm the diagnosis. Bone metabolism markers such as β - CTX and PINP can reflect the status of bone resorption and formation, and require simultaneous detection of blood calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels to assess the etiology.

4. Obesity:

Obesity refers to metabolic syndrome characterized by abnormally high body fat percentage. In addition to body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and body fat distribution should be measured to screen for secondary obesity such as Cushing's syndrome. Insulin resistance testing and lipid profile analysis can help determine the degree of metabolic abnormalities, and some patients may require hormone levels such as leptin and growth hormone to be measured.

5. Gout:

Gout is caused by purine metabolism disorders leading to the deposition of uric acid crystals. Blood uric acid>420 μ mol/L is a high-risk indicator, and the detection of sodium urate crystals in joint fluid can confirm the diagnosis. It is necessary to differentiate between overproduction or poor excretion types by combining renal function and urinary acid excretion testing, and X-ray or ultrasound can evaluate the degree of joint damage.

Metabolic endocrine diseases are closely related to lifestyle. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, control refined sugar and saturated fat intake, and increase whole grains and dietary fiber. Regularly engage in aerobic exercise and resistance training, with at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week. Avoid staying up late and long-term mental stress, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Individuals aged 40 and above should have their fasting blood glucose and thyroid function tested annually, while postmenopausal women and elderly individuals should undergo regular screening for bone density. Seek medical attention promptly when experiencing symptoms such as unexplained weight changes, thirst, polyuria, and bone pain.