The diagnosis and management of endocrine disease in the cancer patient pose specific challenges. Some cancers and cancer treatments increase the risk of endocrine disease, but symptoms of endocrine diseases frequently are vague and overlap with cancer-related symptoms. In addition, the interpretation of endocrine tests requires special consideration of current and past cancer treatments.
The Center for Oncoendocrinology was established in collaboration with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to address the specific endocrine needs of cancer patients by providing exceptional high-quality care and by investigating best treatment approaches in this patient population.
The Center relies on the already well-established clinical expertise within BWH, such as the thyroid clinics, the Center for Adrenal Disorders and the Pituitary/Neuroendocrine program. For general endocrine disorders, patients are seen either at BWH or at DFCI by our oncoendocrinology team. Some typical diagnoses include:
- Abnormal thyroid function tests
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypertension
- Osteoporosis, osteopenia and fractures; osteoporosis prevention in individuals at risk (patients receiving aromatase inhibitors, androgen deprivation therapy, etc.)
- Adrenal insufficiency, risk mitigation and dose weaning in patients receiving chronic glucocorticoid treatment.
- Incidental imaging findings in endocrine organs, such as adrenal/pituitary/thyroid nodules
- Hypercalcemia, hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, hypophosphatemia
- Male and female sex hormone abnormalities (abnormal testosterone levels, menstrual abnormalities, etc.)
To make an appointment or for more information, please contact us:
Address:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Yawkey 5
450 Brookline Avenue
Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-632-4523
Fax: 617-632-6807
