Question

Compare and contrast the disorders caused by the hyposecretion and hypersecretion of the endocrine glands.

Answer 1

Hyposecretion:

Hyposecretion is the diminished secretion of hormones by the endocrine glands which should be compensated by replacement therapies. Hypothyroidism leads to the diseases of Type 1 diabetes, Diabetes insipidus, growth deficiency, and hypothyroidism. Type 1 diabetes is due to a lack of insulin secretion by beta cells of the pancreas. This can be replaced by the administration of insulin. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by lack of Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) which leads to dilution and excretion of excessive urine. Lack of Growth hormone(GH) secreted by pituitary gland leads to growth deficiency and treated by Growth hormone Replacement. T3 and T4 are hormones secreted by thyroid gland. Deficiency of these hormones leads to hypothyroidism.

Hypersecretion:

Hypersecretion is a condition whereby the endocrine gland produces an excess of hormones. Hypersecretion leads to the formation of a tumor. Hypersecretion of thyroid hormones increases body metabolism and leads to the condition called goiter. Hypersecretion of growth hormone by the pituitary gland leads to the condition of acromegaly. Hyperglycemia is a condition whereby the body cells are resistant to insulin and pancreas needs to produce excess insulin to meet the demand.