Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Anesthetic Management of Patients with Endocrine Disease

The endocrine system plays an important role in homeostasis through secretion of hormones that function in metabolism, growth, reproduction, and digestion. In patients with endocrine disorders, an understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the underlying disease process is imperative to provide adequate perianesthetic management. This chapter presents relevant anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of common endocrine disorders affecting the adrenal gland, pancreas, kidney, thyroid gland, and parathyroid glands. Specific anesthetic considerations and appropriate perianesthetic management of small animals presenting with common endocrinopathies are discussed.