Endocrinology is the study of hormones and endocrine glands. The specialty of clinical endocrinology encompasses the diagnosis and management of disorders of the endocrine system. Hormones from the body’s major glands (adrenal, gonads, pancreas, parathyroid, pituitary, and thyroid) regulate growth and development, bone health, metabolism, electrolytes, blood pressure, reproduction, and ageing.

Paediatric endocrinologists assess, diagnose, and manage neonates, children, and adolescents with endocrine disorders resulting from an excess or deficiency of hormone action. They perform diagnostic and laboratory analyses, provide holistic treatment, and conduct basic and applied research in a wide range of hormonal and metabolic conditions.

The broad range of endocrine conditions seen in the paediatric age group can have a significant impact on a child’s long-term physical and emotional wellbeing.

The nature of care provided by endocrinologists includes:

Diagnosing and treating disorders of the endocrine system. The broad spectrum of conditions managed by the paediatric endocrinologist includes type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hypoglycaemia, variations in growth and puberty, neuroendocrine conditions, benign and malignant glandular tumours, genetic lipid disorders, endocrine effects of oncology treatment, variations of sex and gender, metabolic bone disease, and over-or underactivity of the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands.

Specialist investigation and laboratory skills. Paediatric endocrinologists develop expertise in the use of technology to monitor and treat endocrine conditions, such as continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusions (CSII). Endocrinologists need to be able to interpret biochemical and dynamic tests relating to endocrine diagnosis and have a good understanding of the laboratory methods underlying these analyses and their limitations. They also work closely with geneticists to investigate the genetic basis for many paediatric endocrine conditions. Consequently, experience in clinical or laboratory research and in diagnostic endocrine laboratory medicine is a strongly recommended component of training.

Long-term patient management. Endocrine conditions are diverse in their requirement for specialist medical advice, and in most cases their impact is lifelong. Many pose a diagnostic challenge, and in some, the application of new or partially effective treatment requires fine judgement. Endocrine disorders affect many body systems and call for expertise in interpretation of clinical biochemistry and immunochemistry, including dynamic tests, genetic testing and counselling, and a strong therapeutic partnership between the endocrinologist, the patient, and their family and/or carers.

Life-stage endocrine care. Paediatric endocrinologists have expertise in managing young people with hormone disorders from birth to adulthood to achieve optimal growth and development to progress through puberty. Endocrine disorders may need to be managed in conjunction with other comorbidities which may impact growth and development.

Lifestyle management advice. Paediatric endocrinologists have expertise in providing lifestyle management advice, including for endocrine-related obesity / overweight, diabetes, metabolic bone, and lipid disorders.

Managing medications. Endocrinologists have expertise in the management of complex medications, and specialist knowledge of medication delivery devices and technology.

Endocrine care delivery. Endocrinology services are extremely valuable across the broad spectrum of health care. Endocrinologists predominantly provide consultation services to hospital inpatients, as well as dedicated acute inpatient endocrine care. Most endocrine care is delivered in outpatient settings, in hospital clinics, with some private practice. Endocrine care is well suited to the incorporation of telehealth and other digital health technologies.

Endocrinologists are leaders in the treatment and management of disorders of the endocrine system, with a focus on communication, problem solving, and research.

Endocrinologists require professional skills and qualities that include:

  • Communication and interpersonal skills

    Endocrinologists have an important role in taking complete medical histories, determining differential diagnoses, and explaining investigations and treatment options, which may include advice on lifestyle, nutrition, medications, and preventative treatments. Endocrinologists work with multidisciplinary teams including diabetes educators, dietitians, psychologists, social workers, and genetic counsellors, as well as other medical specialists. Communication with referring doctors, including general practitioners, is paramount.

  • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

    Endocrinologists must carefully analyse medical histories, physical examination, and investigation results to make accurate diagnoses.

  • Research

    Conducting research on the endocrine system and its diseases, disorders, and conditions to increase understanding of endocrine disorders and develop new treatments is an important component of a career in paediatric endocrinology. Remaining up to date on current discoveries, developments, trends, research, and technology is necessary to deliver the best endocrine care.

Last modified: Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 3:45 PM