Obesity

Clinical endocrinology

Obesity can be associated with several endocrine alterations arising as a result of changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary hormones axes. These include hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, hypogonadism and growth hormone deficiency. Adipose tissue has many other important functions that can be mediated through hormones or substances synthesized and released by adipocytes which include leptin and adiponectin. Hypothyroidism is a common clinical problem seen in obese patients and could contribute to the presence of symptoms such as fatigue and inability to concentrate. Hypogonadism and growth hormone deficiencies are both associated with abdominal obesity. The treatment of these two conditions can result in improving conditioning, muscle strength, and stamina in weight loss, improved metabolic profile, and improved bone density.