From Mary Shomon,
Your Guide to Thyroid Disease.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Adapted by Mary Shomon,
from National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Disease public information

A gland is a discrete and separate soft body made up of a large number of vessels that produce, store, and release -- or "secrete" -- some substance. Some glands secrete their products outside the body, some inside. Those that secrete their products on the inside of the body and, more specifically, secrete hormonal and metabolic substances, are known as endocrine glands. The thyroid is an endocrine gland, as are the parathyroids, the adrenal gland, the pancreas, and the pituitary gland. Endocrinology is the study of endocrine glands. A doctor who specializes in treating patients with endocrine problems is called an "endocrinologist."

This special web feature includes information on a number of endocrine conditions.

• Addison's Disease
• Cushing's Syndrome
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
• Prolactinoma
• Thyroid Disease
• Diabetes
• Endocrinology Organizations, Support Groups and Resources

This information was adapted from National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Disease public information