Interview with an endocrinologist 

This week, I had the opportunity to interview medical consultant Claudia Matta Coelho, who works as a consultant in diabetes, obesity and endocrinology at Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospital in London. She discussed with me her fascinating job role in diagnosing and treating hormone-related conditions, alongside advice for aspiring medical students intrigued by the medical branch of endocrinology.

 

 What is endocrinology, and what does your role as an endocrinologist entail?

The medical branch of diabetes and endocrinology specialises in dealing and treating issues in the endocrine system, related to the functioning of glands and hormones.

My role of endocrinologist specialises in reviewing and diagnosing hormone-related diseases, caused by hormone imbalances, and then treating said diseases accordingly. Typically, GPs will do an initial assessment of a patient, and if they require further support, they will be referred to the hospital for assessment.

 

What are some frequent conditions diagnosed and treated as an endocrinologist?

Common hormone-related conditions I have previously diagnosed include menstrual functioning disorders, such as PCOS, which results due to abnormal levels of testosterone in women, and hyperparathyroidism, wherein excessive production of the parathyroid hormone leads to high calcium levels in the blood.

Most frequently, I assess patients with Type 1 and 2 diabetes, and patients with obesity. Treatments given depend on hormone imbalance identified in the patient, but may include medical treatment such as oral tablets or injectable therapy, and for patients with chronic disease, this may require follow up appointments for a longer span of time.

 

What lifestyle factors do you discuss with patients to manage their conditions?

I work within a multidisciplinary team who specialises in diabetes, obesity and endocrinology, and we take a holistic approach to helping patients to manage their conditions. After reviewing and diagnosing a patient, I may decide their condition could benefit from assessment from another member within the team, for example a dietician for patients with Type 2 diabetes or obesity. Patients may be advised to manage their conditions by reducing smoking and alcohol use, or through several lifestyle interventions, such as physical activity.

 

What do you find most rewarding about working in endocrinology?

I find it rewarding to be able to treat hormone related conditions by prescribing appropriate medication,such as thyroid hormone replacement medication to treat the underproduction of the thyroid. Additionally, I find it rewarding that my role can benefit patients of a wide range of ages, ranging from young patients with PCOS, to elderly patients with long standing diabetes.

 

What advice would you share to medical students considering specialisation into endocrinology?

When considering a specialisation, medical students should have experience attending different types of clinics for that medical branch. It must be considered that in the role of endocrinologist, you will be treating a majority of patients with type 2 diabetes, and therefore must be familiar with the condition and interested in studying it. Students who enjoy physiology and pharmacology will likely enjoy specialisation into diabetes and endocrinology.