Even though there are several excellent pediatric endocrinology texts, I, as a pediatric endocrinologist, consider this text to be the best of the currently available reference works. Edition 5 maintains the tradition of excellence set by the previous editions. The basic principles of endocrinology apply to patients of all ages, and the strengths of the current edition include an in-depth coverage of recent progress in the areas of anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the endocrine organs.
The first chapter is a valuable introduction because it synthesizes current information on the organization and control of endocrine systems. It provides general principles and examples of the working of endocrine systems at the cellular and molecular levels. The different modes of action of protein and corticosteroid hormones are explained. This and subsequent chapters are written by the leading workers in each area.
Some of the chapters provide extensive discussion of a particular gland