Endocrine system, what is it?

Image Reference

The endocrine system comprises of a number of glands or organs that are found in different parts of the body. It produces hormones which influences nearly every cell’s activity in the body. Hormones are chemicals that are released by a cell or gland that transfers information from one set of cells to another. Hormones are also in charge of how the body responds to its surroundings. Furthermore, the endocrine system regulates the body’s growth, metabolism, tissue function, mood, sexual function, and reproduction.

What makes up the endocrine system?

Glands and organs such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, hypothalamus, pancreas, parathyroid, testes and ovaries make up the endocrine system.

Endocrinology

Endocrinology is the study of the endocrine system. It deals with   the study of the hormones being secreted from the endocrine system, functions, their diseases, composition, and problems.

Endocrine problems, diseases, and abnormalities

It is important that our hormone levels should be maintained. Any degree of "hormonal imbalance" may cause problems or diseases. Sometimes hormonal imbalance may be treated by adding or replacing the specific hormone that is triggering the problem.

References:

http://www.vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/endocrine/index.html
http://www.innerbody.com/image/endoov.html
http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/body_basics/endocrine.html#a_About_the_Endocrine_System
http://www.hormone.org/Public/endocrinologist.cfm
Clinical Chemistry A Fundamental Textbook by Donald F. Calbreath
Clinical Chemistry, Principles, Procedures, Correlations by Bishop, et al.