Common endocrine problems in children (hypothyroidism and type 1 diabetes mellitus).

Hypothyroidism and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) constitute two common endocrine disorders of children. Both these are chronic conditions which require long term follow-up for optimum control, can be missed on initial presentation unless a high index of suspicion is maintained and may be associated with adverse outcome if not properly managed. This article deals with basic pathology, recognition, initial investigations, and principles of treatment of these conditions from the perspective of a general pediatrician. It also describes the role of a practitioner in management of these disorders.