Endocrinology Expert Witness


ENDOCRINOLOGY is the medical specialty dealing with function and disorders of the endocrine system — the hormone secreting glands of the human body. Hormones are biochemicals released to target an organ in another part of the body in order to regulate a specific physiologic function such as sleep, reproduction, metabolism, lactation, growth, or digestion. Common hormone examples include insulin, human growth hormone, thyroid hormone, and adrenaline. To specialize in Endocrinology, a physician must first complete a 3-year residency in Internal Medicine followed by a 2-year fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism. Some Endocrinologists specialize in specific areas including Pediatric Endocrinology, Reproductive Endocrinology, Neuroendocrinology, and Transgender Medicine. Endocrinologic diseases are complex disorders that may involve the pancreas, thyroid, adrenal glands, pituitary, hypothalamus, parathyroids, and reproductive organs. As a result, Endocrinologists treat a diverse range of disorders including diabetes, hypothyroidism, infertility, and abnormal growth.
Medical malpractice involving Endocrinologists is relatively uncommon. When it occurs, allegations may include delayed diagnosis and treatment of an endocrinologic condition, as well as complications from the treatment itself. More commonly, an Endocrinologist will be called as a causation expert to explain the natural history of an endocrinologic process and how treatment affects outcome.