Endocrinology Curriculum – Students will have to learn and be tested on the following information laid out in the curriculum*. 

General Overview

The student should be able to:

Course Objectives

  • understand the function of the endocrine organs, metabolism of their hormones, and their effects on the body.
  • understand the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of diseases of the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas (endocrine), testes, and ovary.
  • interpret the results of measurements of stimulation and suppression of glands.
  • know the pharmacology and use of insulin, thyroid hormones, corticosteroids, androgens, estrogens,vasopressin, and other agents.
  • interpret special procedures for visualization, scans, ultrasonography for tumor and organvisualization.
  • be familiar with principal issues in diabetes management, including use and rational dosing ofmodern insulins, indications for use of insulin pumps, use of newer oral hypoglycemic and insulin sensitizing agents, foot care, and management of complications.

 

ENDOCRINE DISEASES AND TOPICS

Core Diseases and Topics

can be found in Internal Medicine Clerkship Guide, 3rd Ed. by Paauw* and in MKSAP for Students 4†, assigned for Year 3 General Internal Medicine clerkship.

  • Endocrinology and metabolism
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Thyroid disease
  • Adrenal disorders
  • Male hypogonadism

The student is responsible for reviewing these topics during the endocrine elective. Introductory information

  • Hypoglycemia
  • Ketoacidosis
  • Hyperosmolar state
  • Hypthyroidism
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Thyroid nodules

• Diabetes mellitus
• Cushings disease
• Addisons disease
• T esticular failure
• Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion

Implementation

Course objectives are to be accomplished in a clinical facility, under supervision. Course objectives should be covered during the rotation to assure adequate student preparation for board examinations and clinical practice. The use of diverse methods appropriate to the individual and the clinical site are encouraged, but patient-centered teaching is optimal.

Didactic methods to achieve required objectives include:

• Reading assignments
• Lectures
• Computer-assisted programs (if available)

• Student attendance at/participation in formal clinical presentations by medical faculty

Clinically oriented teaching methods may include:

  • Assignment of limited co-management responsibilities under supervision
  • Participation in clinic visits, daily patient rounds and conferences
  • Supervised and critiqued clinic work-ups of patients admitted to the service
  • Assigned, case-oriented reading case presentations

*Endocrinology Curriculum – This curriculum is a curriculum formed by the Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine.