The Thyroid and Endocrine Surgery Center at Nicklaus Children’s offers comprehensive care management for children and adolescents with a full range of thyroid disorders and endocrine conditions requiring surgical management. While it occurs more frequently in adults, thyroid disease is among the most common endocrine disorders of childhood, occurring in approximately 37 of 1,000 children under the age of 20. Conditions affecting the adrenal and parathyroid glands, such as pheochromocytomas and parathyroid adenomas, are uncommon in the pediatric population but require surgical management due to the serious complications if left untreated.
The thyroid is a small gland located in the base of the neck and is part of the body’s endocrine system. This hard-working gland produces hormones that contribute to growth, organ development, and bone health. In addition, it helps the body utilize energy effectively. Thyroid hormones support a wide range of core bodily activities, including breathing, heartbeats, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, body temperature maintenance and more. When the thyroid does not function properly, a variety of health challenges may occur if not appropriately managed.
The adrenal gland produces important hormones to control body electrolytes, glucose, and stress hormones. Neoplasms of the adrenal gland can produce conditions affecting weight, glucose levels, electrolytes, blood pressure, and others. The parathyroid gland controls the body calcium levels. Excessive calcium can produce kidney stones and may affect kidney function and heart rhythm.
A Team Approach to Care
The Thyroid and Endocrine Surgery Center brings together a comprehensive care team to consult in the care of children with thyroid and endocrine disorders that require medical and surgical management. Patients and families benefit from a collaborative approach that brings together multidisciplinary experts to assess and provide care for children with wide-ranging thyroid and surgical endocrine conditions.
The team has pediatric specialists in:
Treatments and Procedures
Treatments and Procedures
Conditions We Treat