As a common concept 'bone age' is felt to be an expression of the biological maturity of a child. Inferring from bone maturity, the clinician can contemplate diagnostic considerations and evaluate height prediction. A radiogram of the hand and wrist may provide additional information that is not being evaluated by reading of a 'bone age'. Although it reveals only calcified elements it provides a glimpse into a whole variety of processes in bone and cartilage growth, differentiation and calcification which, in turn, are regulated by control mechanisms. Thyroid hormones, sex steroids, calcium regulating hormones are but a few of these control mechanisms, and their effect may become evident when radiograms are carefully examined. This book illustrates how to interpret the biological mechanisms of growth from hand and wrist x-rays reviewing at the same time the anatomical and histological maturation of long bones and cuboid bones. It summarizes the endocrine regulation of these maturational processes and attempts to uncover endocrine functions and malfunctions as they unfold in the radiogram. The presently used methods of skeletal maturity assessment are outlined and reiterated, while some doubts about the entire paradigm and its uncertainties are to be raised and considered. This book is an indispensable aid enabling endocrinologists, radiologists and pediatricians to understand skeletal maturity in a more meaningful way.

This first-ever Surgeon General's Report on bone health and osteoporosis illustrates the large burden that bone disease places on our Nation and its citizens. Like other chronic diseases that disproportionately affect the elderly, the prevalence of bone disease and fractures is projected to increase markedly as the population ages. If these predictions come true, bone disease and fractures will have a tremendous negative impact on the future well-being of Americans. But as this report makes clear, they need not come true: by working together we can change the picture of aging in America. Osteoporosis, fractures, and other chronic diseases no longer should be thought of as an inevitable part of growing old. By focusing on prevention and lifestyle changes, including physical activity and nutrition, as well as early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, Americans can avoid much of the damaging impact of bone disease and other chronic diseases. This Surgeon General's Report brings together for the first time the scientific evidence related to the prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of bone disease. More importantly, it provides a framework for moving forward. The report will be another effective tool in educating Americans about how they can promote bone health throughout their lives. This first-ever Surgeon General's Report on bone health and osteoporosis provides much needed information on bone health, an often overlooked aspect of physical health. This report follows in the tradition of previous Surgeon Generals' reports by identifying the relevant scientific data, rigorously evaluating and summarizing the evidence, and determining conclusions.

The use of model organisms together with the power of genetics has profoundly affected our understanding of the physiology of one organ, the skeleton, in two distinct but complementary ways. This is the first translational reference to focus on these major conceptual advances in bone biology and their development in the clinic. Several advances have already been translated into therapies and others are being tested for diseases as different as osteoporosis, type-2 diabetes, and hypo-fertility. This book is a timely reference for both basic and clinical researchers in bone biology and endocrinology. - Summarizes the latest research and translational applications of how the varied growth and development of bone affects appetite, metabolism, reproduction, and a wide range of endocrine functions - Provides a common language for bone biologists, endocrinologists, osteologists, and other researchers, such as neuroscientists, who study appetite, fuel metabolism and diabetes, to discuss the development of translational research and new therapeutic strategies for bone, metabolic, and neuro-endocrine diseases - Saves researchers and clinicians time in quickly accessing the very latest details on a broad range of bone research and therapeutics, as opposed to searching through thousands of journal articles

This volume provides comprehensive coverage of the current knowledge of the physiology of the endocrine system and hormone synthesis and release, transport, and action at the molecular and cellular levels. It presents essential as well as in-depth information of value to both medical students and specialists in Endocrinology, Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Internal Medicine. Although it is well established that the endocrine system regulates essential functions involved in growth, reproduction, and homeostasis, it is increasingly being recognized that this complex regulatory system comprises not only hormones secreted by the classic endocrine glands but also hormones and regulatory factors produced by many organs, and involves extensive crosstalk with the neural and immune system. At the same time, our knowledge of the molecular basis of hormone action has greatly improved. Understanding this complexity of endocrine physiology is crucial to prevent endocrine disorders, to improve the sensitivity of our diagnostic tools, and to provide the rationale for pharmacological, immunological, or genetic interventions. It is such understanding that this book is designed to foster.

This revised new edition reviews the substantial advances in our understanding of the vital role of growth hormone (GH) in maintaining adult health, and the resulting disorders from GH deficiency. The first edition, published in 1996, provided a pioneering overview of the subject; this new edition provides an even more comprehensive account, fully updated with the latest research, clinical applications, and references. The therapeutic benefits of GH treatment in GH deficiency are thoroughly evaluated, including effects on metabolism, cardiac function, exercise performance, psychosocial aspects, and aging and gender-specific effects. This compilation by the world's leading experts covers clinical investigation, diagnosis and treatment issues, and encompasses new knowledge of the control and action of GH secretion. This volume is the most authoritative, comprehensive, and detailed account available and will be an essential source of reference for all endocrinologists.

Evidence generated by a number of genetic studies indicates that growth is regulated by a number of genes and that interference with their expression can have catastrophic effects on the well being of the whole organism. This work covers skeletal development and growth.

It has been known for over 40 years that GH-deficient-children benefit from replacement with the hormone. But GH, essential for longitudinal growth, also plays a role after completion of final height. With the introduction of biosynthetic human GH 20 years ago, the use of GH was no longer restricted to severe growth retardation in hypopituitary children. This book will take the reader behind the myths of GH and into the real world of clinical endocrinology. The contributions stem from recognized clinicians and scientists who have been working in the field for decades. The contents encompass traditional end points of GH therapy such as body composition, bone biology and physical performance. Attention is also devoted to diagnostic aspects and side effects. Additional features range from clinical epidemiology to quality of life, and novel areas such as the impact of traumatic brain injury on pituitary function are also covered. The present volume of Frontiers of Hormone Research is essential reading for health care professionals interested in clinical endocrinology and GH.