Medical Imaging

Personalized Treatment Plans: Recognizing that each patient’s journey with diabetes is unique, we create individualized treatment plans that address specific needs and goals.

Integrated Care: Our team includes endocrinologists, diabetes educators, dietitians, and nurses, ensuring all aspects of diabetes management are covered, from medical treatment to lifestyle modifications.

Patient Education: We emphasize educating our patients about diabetes management, empowering them to take an active role in controlling their condition.

Latest Treatments and Technologies: The clinic stays abreast of the latest advancements in diabetes care, incorporating cutting-edge treatments and technologies to provide the best possible outcomes.

Supportive Environment: We strive to create a supportive and understanding environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns and challenges.

When visiting our Diabetes Clinic, patients can expect:

• Initial visits start with a thorough assessment of your medical history, lifestyle, and current diabetes management plan.
• A physical examination is conducted, including vital signs, weight, and a foot examination, as foot health is crucial in diabetes care.
• We’ll review your blood sugar records and may conduct or schedule necessary tests such as HbA1c, lipid profile, and kidney and liver function tests to screen for diabetes-related complications.
• You’ll have a one-on-one consultation with our endocrinologist to discuss your test results, treatment options, and any concerns you might have. You’ll be referred to the specialized clinics as needed such as Ophthalmology, Nephrology, and Vascular clinics.
• Our dietitians will provide nutritional counseling tailored to your needs, and our diabetes educators will help you with lifestyle advice and self-management skills.

Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment and consultations, we will develop or adjust your personalized treatment plan, which may include medication adjustments, insulin therapy, dietary changes, and exercise recommendations.

Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, and provide ongoing support and education.

Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition leading to the pancreas’ failure to produce insulin. Management includes insulin therapy and close monitoring of blood sugar levels.
Other Glucose Metabolism Disorders: Including Type 2 Diabetes and MODY (Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young), which require tailored treatment plans.

Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism: Manifested as slowed growth, fatigue, and cognitive delays, usually treatable with thyroid hormone replacement.
Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms include accelerated growth, weight loss, and anxiety, often requiring medication to control thyroid hormone production.

Growth Disorders
Short Stature & Growth Failure: Evaluating children who are significantly shorter than their peers. Causes can range from genetic factors to hormonal imbalances.
Growth Hormone Deficiency: A condition where the pituitary gland fails to produce enough growth hormone, affecting normal growth.
Overgrowth Syndromes: Conditions causing excessive growth, which might indicate hormonal imbalances.

Puberty-Related Disorders
Delayed Puberty: When a child shows no signs of puberty by an age at which it’s typically expected. Causes can include hormonal imbalances or chromosomal issues.
Precocious Puberty: The early onset of puberty can be concerning and may be due to hormonal disorders, brain abnormalities, or genetic factors.

Adrenal Disorders
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A genetic disorder affecting the adrenal glands’ ability to produce specific hormones, often leading to an imbalance in sex hormones.
Addison’s Disease: Characterized by low production of adrenal hormones, affecting growth and development.

Pituitary Disorders
Pituitary Hormone Deficiencies: Affecting growth, puberty, and other bodily functions, often necessitating hormone replacement therapies.
Diabetes Insipidus: A rare form characterized by frequent urination and excessive thirst, unrelated to blood sugar levels.

Diagnosis in Pediatric Endocrinology
The diagnostic process at KCH Jeddah involves:
Detailed Medical History: Including birth history, growth patterns, and family medical history.
Physical Examination: Focusing on the child’s growth, development, and any physical signs of endocrine disorders.
Laboratory Tests: Blood and urine tests to assess hormone levels and other relevant markers.
Imaging Studies: Like X-rays for bone age assessment, MRI for pituitary disorders, or ultrasound for thyroid evaluation.

During a visit to the pediatric endocrinology clinic at KCH Jeddah, patients and their families can expect:

• An initial discussion about the child’s symptoms, medical history, and any concerns the family might have.
  A gentle and thorough examination by the pediatric endocrinologist.
• Explanation and scheduling of any necessary tests.
  Our approach is family-centered involving family members in discussions about diagnosis, treatment options, and care plans.
• Information provided on the child’s condition, treatment strategies, and lifestyle recommendations.
• Tailored to the child’s specific needs, which may include medication, dietary advice, or hormone therapy.
  Setting up regular check-ups to monitor the child’s progress and adjust treatments as necessary.

At KCH Jeddah’s pediatric endocrinology clinic, we provide specialized care for children with hormonal disorders in a supportive and family-friendly environment. Our team is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care, ensuring that each child’s unique needs are met with compassion and expertise. Early intervention and tailored treatment plans are vital for managing pediatric endocrine disorders effectively.

• Individualized Treatment Plans: Recognizing the diverse manifestations of the different endocrine disorders, we tailor treatment plans to address each patient’s unique symptoms and concerns.
• Integrated Care: Our team includes endocrinologists, radiologists, pathologists, and surgeons, ensuring all aspects of endocrine management are covered, from medical treatment to surgical intervention.
• Focus on Education and Awareness: We emphasize educating our patients about their disease, its impact on health, and lifestyle management strategies.
• Latest Treatment Options: Our clinic stays up to date with the latest advancements in treatment, including medication and surgery when indicated.Supportive Environment: We provide a supportive and understanding setting, encouraging open communication and ongoing support.

When visiting our Adult Endocrine Clinic, patients can expect:

• Initial visits start with a thorough assessment of your medical history, and any symptoms you’re experiencing and a detailed physical examination is conducted.
• Diagnostic Tests: Blood and/or urine tests to check hormone levels and other related health indicators. An appropriate imaging study may be conducted as needed.
• Discussion and Counseling: We take the time to discuss the diagnosis, answer questions, and address any immediate concerns you might have.
• Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the diagnosis, we create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, and possibly surgery if needed.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, and provide ongoing support and education.

The adrenal glands, though small, are pivotal in regulating key functions in the body. Situated above each kidney, these glands produce vital hormones including cortisol, aldosterone, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. These hormones regulate critical body functions like stress response, metabolism, blood pressure, and salt and water balance. Imbalances in these hormones can cause a variety of health issues, making awareness of adrenal function and potential disorders crucial.

Addison’s Disease: This occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, especially cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms include chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, and darkening of the skin. It can be life-threatening if not treated.

Cushing’s Syndrome: Caused by excessive cortisol production, either due to adrenal tumors or external steroid use. Symptoms include weight gain, particularly around the abdomen and face, thinning skin, easy bruising, and high blood pressure. Long-term effects can include diabetes and osteoporosis.

Adrenal Tumors: These can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may cause overproduction of adrenal hormones. Symptoms depend on the type of hormone produced and can range from those seen in Cushing’s syndrome to signs of virilization (increased male characteristics) or feminization.

Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor that leads to excessive production of adrenaline and noradrenaline, resulting in severe hypertension, palpitations, headache, and episodes of sweating. If not treated, it can lead to life-threatening cardiovascular complications.

Conn’s Syndrome: Caused by excessive aldosterone production that causes high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalance. Long-term complications include cardiovascular complications such as stroke and cardiac disease.

Symptoms vary widely but often include fatigue, muscle weakness, weight changes, mood swings, and blood pressure fluctuations.

• Blood and urine tests to check hormone levels.
• Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to detect tumors or gland abnormalities.
• Specific tests such as the ACTH stimulation test for Addison’s disease or 24-hour urinary free cortisol for Cushing’s syndrome.

Treatment depends on the disorder:

Addison’s Disease: Usually treated with hormone replacement therapy to substitute the deficient hormones.

Cushing’s Syndrome: Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, or medication to control hormone production.

Tumors: Treatment varies based on the nature of the tumor and may involve surgery, medication, or observation.

Pheochromocytoma: Often treated with surgery to remove the tumor, alongside medication to control blood pressure.

Living with an adrenal disorder involves:

• Regular follow-up appointments for monitoring and treatment adjustments.
• Dietary and lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Stress management, as stress can exacerbate symptoms.

When visiting a healthcare provider for adrenal disorders, you can expect:

• Discussion of your symptoms, family history, and any previous medical conditions.
• Focusing on signs related to adrenal disorders, such as blood pressure changes, physical appearance, and any skin abnormalities.
• Blood and urine tests to measure hormone levels; imaging tests like CT or MRI scans may be ordered to examine the adrenal glands.
• Based on the diagnosis, options for medication, lifestyle changes, or possibly surgery will be discussed.

Conclusion

Adrenal gland disorders, though diverse, can significantly affect one’s health and well-being. Early detection, effective management, and ongoing care are crucial. Individuals experiencing symptoms related to adrenal disorders should consult healthcare providers for proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

Calcium is a crucial mineral in the body, responsible for bone health, blood clotting, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. Disorders related to calcium metabolism, including hypocalcemia, hypercalcemia, hypoparathyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and vitamin D deficiency, can have significant health implications. Proper understanding and management of these disorders are essential for maintaining overall health and preventing complications.

Hypocalcemia (Low Calcium Levels)

Hypocalcemia occurs when blood calcium levels fall below normal. Causes include:

Vitamin D Deficiency: Reduces calcium absorption from the intestine, leading to low blood calcium.

Hypoparathyroidism: Underactive parathyroid glands lead to reduced parathyroid hormone (PTH) production, essential for calcium regulation.

Kidney Disease: Impairs the body’s ability to maintain calcium and phosphorus balance.
Medications: Certain drugs can interfere with calcium absorption or excretion.

Symptoms often include muscle spasms or cramping, numbness or tingling in the extremities, and, in severe cases, cardiac arrhythmias or seizures. Treatment generally involves calcium supplements, possibly along with vitamin D, and addressing the underlying cause.

Hypercalcemia (High Calcium Levels)

Hypercalcemia is characterized by abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood. It can be caused by:

Hyperparathyroidism: Overactive parathyroid glands produce too much PTH, leading to increased calcium.
Cancers: Certain cancers, like lung or breast cancer, can raise blood calcium levels.
Prolonged Immobilization: Can cause calcium to leach out of bones into the bloodstream.
Medications: Some drugs, including diuretics and lithium, can increase calcium levels.

Symptoms may range from mild, such as fatigue and weakness, to severe, including kidney stones, bone pain, and neurological disturbances. Treatment is focused on the underlying cause and may include hydration, medications to lower calcium levels, and dietary modifications.

Hypoparathyroidism

This rare condition involves inadequate production of PTH, leading to low calcium and high phosphorus levels. It can occur post-surgically, particularly after thyroid or neck surgery, or due to autoimmune diseases or genetic factors.

Symptoms include muscle cramps, tingling, and seizures.

Treatment typically involves long-term calcium and vitamin D supplementation to maintain normal blood calcium levels.

Hyperparathyroidism

Hyperparathyroidism results from excessive PTH production, usually due to a benign tumor on a parathyroid gland. It leads to high calcium levels, causing symptoms like bone pain, kidney stones, fatigue, and depression.

Treatment options include surgical removal of the overactive gland, medications to manage symptoms, and careful monitoring of calcium levels.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption and bone health. Deficiency can result from limited sun exposure, poor diet, or absorption disorders. It leads to weak bones, muscle weakness, and in children, can cause rickets.

Treatment involves vitamin D supplementation and increased exposure to sunlight, along with dietary changes to ensure adequate vitamin D intake.

Diagnosing calcium disorders involves a comprehensive approach to accurately assess the underlying cause and severity of the condition. The diagnostic process typically includes:

• Blood Tests: Essential for measuring total and ionized calcium levels in the blood. These tests also evaluate levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, phosphorus, and kidney function markers, which can provide insights into the cause of calcium imbalances.
  Urine Tests: 24-hour urine collection can help assess calcium excretion and kidney function. It’s particularly useful in diagnosing hypercalcemia and hyperparathyroidism.
• Imaging Tests: In cases of suspected hyperparathyroidism, imaging techniques such as ultrasound, Sestamibi scan, or CT scan can be used to locate an overactive parathyroid gland. Bone density scans (DEXA) are used to evaluate bone strength, especially in patients with osteoporosis.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This test may be conducted to check for cardiac effects of extreme calcium imbalances, as both hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia can affect heart rhythms.
• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination, including a review of symptoms and medical history, is crucial. This may reveal signs consistent with calcium disorders, such as muscle weakness, bone tenderness, or psychological changes.
• The diagnosis of calcium disorders often requires collaboration between primary care physicians, endocrinologists, and other specialists to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and an accurate diagnosis.

Effective management includes regular monitoring, adherence to treatment and medication regimens, and lifestyle and dietary adjustments to optimize calcium and vitamin D intake.

For a medical visit concerning calcium disorders, you should expect:

• Discussion about any symptom indicative of calcium imbalance, such as muscle cramps or changes in bone health.
• A Physical Exam that focuses on signs of calcium disorders, including checking for muscle weakness or neurological changes.
• Blood and urine tests to measure calcium levels, kidney function, and other related markers.
• Discussion of treatment options including potential medication, dietary recommendations, and monitoring schedule.

Conclusion

Calcium disorders, such as hypo/hypercalcemia, hypo/hyperparathyroidism, and vitamin D deficiency, impact health significantly. Timely detection and appropriate management are crucial for preventing serious health issues. Individuals with symptoms of calcium imbalance should seek professional medical advice for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. [Schedule an Appointme

Gonadal disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the gonads (ovaries in females and testes in males), which are responsible for hormone production and reproduction. Gonadal disorders often result from genetic, hormonal, or environmental factors and can manifest in various ways, including impaired hormone production, abnormal sexual development, and fertility issues. In men, these disorders can lead to conditions like hypogonadism, where the testes produce insufficient testosterone. In women, disorders like PCOS and premature ovarian failure are common.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods.
Elevated Androgen Levels: Excess levels of male hormones may result in physical signs like facial hair and acne.

Polycystic Ovaries: Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but factors like insulin resistance, inflammation, and heredity play roles. PCOS is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.

Common symptoms vary depending on the disorder but may include menstrual irregularities, infertility, sexual dysfunction, and changes in physical appearance.

Diagnosis involves:

• Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels, including testosterone, estrogen, FSH, LH, and others.
  Ultrasound: For women, pelvic ultrasound can help visualize the condition of the ovaries and the uterus.
• Physical Examination: Assessment of signs like changes in hair growth, breast size, or genital abnormalities.
  Additional Tests: Depending on symptoms, tests like semen analysis in men or glucose tolerance tests in women might be conducted.

Treatment depends on the specific disorder and symptoms:

• Hormone Therapy: To balance hormone levels, including hormonal contraceptives for women with PCOS to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels.
• Lifestyle Changes: Particularly for PCOS, weight management through diet and exercise can improve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
• Fertility Treatments: For those facing infertility, treatments such as IVF or hormone therapy can be effective.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be required, like ovarian drilling for PCOS.

Effective management includes regular medical monitoring, adherence to treatment plans, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and reduce health risks.

When visiting a healthcare provider for gonadal disorders, you can expect:

• Your doctor will as questions about reproductive health, menstrual cycle (in females), sexual function, and any fertility issues.
• Conduct a physical examination to assess physical symptoms related to gonadal disorders.
• Blood tests to check hormone levels such as estrogen, testosterone, FSH, and LH.
• Ultrasound or Imaging Tests are done especially for conditions like PCOS or testicular issues.
• Discussion about possible treatments including hormone therapy, lifestyle interventions, and addressing any fertility concerns.

Conclusion

Gonadal disorders, including PCOS, require a comprehensive approach for diagnosis and management. Understanding these conditions is crucial for affected individuals to manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Early detection and tailored treatment are key to improving quality of life. Individuals experiencing symptoms of gonadal disorders should consult healthcare professionals for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Thyroid Scan: Uses a radioactive isotope to visualize the thyroid gland, helping to identify nodules or abnormalities.

Bone Density Scan (DEXA): Measures bone mineral density, often used in diagnosing osteoporosis.

MRI or CT Scans: Used to detect abnormalities in the pituitary gland or other parts of the endocrine system.

HbA1c Test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, used in diabetes management.

Thyroid Function Tests: Include measuring Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), T3, and T4 levels to assess thyroid gland activity.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Used to diagnose diabetes and gestational diabetes. It measures blood glucose levels before and after consuming a sweet drink.

Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: Often used when a nodule in the thyroid or other glands is detected. A small needle is used to extract tissue for examination.

Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test: Used to evaluate thyroid function, particularly in cases of hyperthyroidism.

Dynamic Hormone Testing: Involves administering hormones or hormone-inhibiting drugs and measuring the body’s response over time.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Primarily used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism, including Graves’ disease, and some types of thyroid cancer. The patient ingests radioactive iodine, which selectively targets and destroys overactive thyroid cells.

Thyroidectomy: A surgical procedure to partially or completely remove the thyroid gland. It’s typically employed in cases of thyroid cancer, large goiters, or hyperthyroidism that does not respond to other treatments.

Parathyroidectomy: The surgical removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands, often used to treat hyperparathyroidism, which can cause hypercalcemia and bone damage.

Adrenalectomy: This involves the surgical removal of one or both adrenal glands. It’s performed for conditions like adrenal tumors (both benign and malignant), Cushing’s syndrome due to an adrenal tumor, or pheochromocytoma.

Pituitary Surgery: Often done via a transsphenoidal approach, where the surgeon reaches the pituitary gland through the nose or upper lip. It’s a common method for removing pituitary tumors.

Insulin Pump Therapy: Used in the management of diabetes. An insulin pump delivers insulin continuously, mimicking the body’s normal release of insulin and providing better blood sugar control.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): While not invasive like surgery, CGM systems are a key procedural tool in diabetes management. They continuously track glucose levels through a small sensor placed under the skin.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Used for various conditions, including hypothyroidism, menopause, and hypogonadism. HRT involves administering hormones to correct deficiencies.