The endocrine system together with the nervous system are the two major control systems that allow specialized tissues to function in an integral way. Endocrinology concerns the synthesis, secretion and action of hormones, which are chemical messengers that coordinate the activities of different cells. Apart from diabetes mellitus, endocrine diseases are a relatively rare cause of death. But the common occurrence of endocrine disorders requires certain knowledge in this field.

The aim of this course is to provide students with a general overview of the endocrine system in the following aspects: (1) General concepts of the endocrine system; (2) Testing of endocrine functions; (3) Introduction to endocrine diseases; (4) Study of individual endocrine glands: The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, The thyroid gland, The parathyroid gland, The adrenal gland, Diabetes Mellitus, (Sex hormones are included in the Reproductive System); and (5) Study of clinical cases.