Endocrine Abstracts

Pituitary hyperplasia secondary to primary hypothyroidism (PHPH) is a consequence of long term untreated or uncontrolled primary hypothyroidism. The proliferation of thyrotrophs in the pituitary gland, due to the lack of negative feedback on the hypothalamus from low circulating thyroid hormone levels, causes elevated thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Hyperprolactinaemia can also be present due to the stimulatory effect of TSH on lactotrophs. Pituitary hyperplasia caus...

Background: Thyroid stimulating receptor hormone receptor antibodies (TRAb) markers are useful in confirming diagnosis of Graves’ disease, but also recognised as a predictor of relapse. Good practice dictates that a TRAb is measured at the commencement of treatment, to confirm a diagnosis of graves’ disease. Repeating the TRAb before discontinuation of treatment can assist in guiding treatment. If TRAb remains elevated, the chances of relapse are inc...

Background: During Covid-19 pandemic, we recognised the importance of optimising adrenal insufficient patients’ ability to manage adrenal crisis and seek medical intervention thereby reducing the need for more intensive support. Evidence suggests omission of steroids during an adrenal crisis is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Research by National Reporting Learning System (2020) identified 4 deaths, 4 admissions to critical care, 320 incidents relating to steroid re...

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an increasing problem worldwide. Post-natal-hypoglycaemia and excess-foetal-growth are known important metabolic complications of neonates born to women with diabetes. This retrospective-cohort-study aims to determine the influence of obesity and glucose-intolerance on neonatal-hypoglycaemia and birth-weight over the 90th percentile (LGA).Methods: Data were abstracted from 303 patient medical records f...

Introduction: It is recognised that osteocytes, by secreting sclerostin plays a more central role in bone homeostasis. Sclerostin is a physiological inhibitor of bone formation. By binding to the LRP5/6 receptor sclerostin inhibits the Wnt signalling pathway. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to ascertain whether an endogenous sclerostin circadian rhythm exists in healthy individuals.Subjects and methods: Six healthy young men with normal BMD were a...

Introduction: Osteotropic hormones demonstrate circadian rhythms which are integral to bone homeostasis. Sclerostin is a physiological inhibitor of bone formation. We have established that Sclerostin has a distinct circadian rhythm with a nocturnal peak. Analysis was performed to determine the relationship of Sclerostin levels to PTH, Calcium, Phosphate, βCTX and P1NP in healthy young men.Methods: Six healthy young men with normal BMD were admitted ...

Background: NF1 and MEN2 are rare conditions known to associate with bilateral phaeochromochtomas. We describe, with relevant associated radiology, a NF1 patient developing a series of neuroendocrine tumours including bilateral phaeochromocytomas.Clinical case: A 39-year-old lady presented with long standing episodic abdominal pain, diarrhoea, palpitation and sweating. Past history includes first arch syndrome and NF1 at teens and total thyroidectomy for...