Endocrine and metabolic emergencies

Abstract

Diseases of the endocrine system consist primarily of problems of undersecretion or oversecretion of a hormone, with resulting underactivity or overactivity of the target gland. Most of these diseases are insidious in onset and rarely cause acute life-threatening emergency. However, if not recognized early they can progress to the point of becoming a true emergency. Diabetic ketoacidosis, the most common metabolic emergency, occurs in the absence of insulin, which causes the liver to produce ketones as an alternative source of fuel for the brain. Hypoglycemia, by contrast, is due to an overabundance of insulin. Thyroid storm, adrenal insufficiency, and calcium emergencies also can occur. Most endocrine emergencies can be treated without consequence if detected early.