Questions about your child's health? Call our free 24/7 Nurse Advice Line 844-GET-CHOC.

Free 24/7 Nurse Advice Line: 844-GET-CHOC.

Home » Programs and Services » Endocrinology

Endocrinology

We understand it can be overwhelming to have a child with complex disorders and you might not know where to start. At CHOC, our pediatric endocrinologists help support families through diagnosis, education and treatment.

The endocrine system is a complex collection of hormone-producing glands that control basic body functions such as metabolism, growth and sexual development. CHOC provides innovative programs and specialized treatments for conditions such as diabetes, thyroid cancer, a variety of gender, puberty and sex development issues and more.

Growth Hormone Product Shortage
Some growth hormone products are in short supply nationwide. The CHOC endocrinology team is actively working with patients’ pharmacies to provide guidance accordingly. We know how stressful this may be for patients and families, but please be assured that a brief break in therapy won’t lead to adverse effects in a child’s health. However, if you are concerned that your child is at risk for immediate health concerns, do not hesitate to contact your provider/the endocrinology clinic at 714-509-8634. Learn more about growth hormone deficiencies in children.

Innovative Programs, Specialized Expertise

Children are not small adults and their health care needs and should be diagnosed and treated by specialists who understand the needs of children. We are dedicated to providing the least invasive, most advanced treatment for endocrine-related disorders in children. Our multidisciplinary teams will work alongside you, offering patient education and family support, as well as opportunities for the child to play, discover and create. Our nationally recognized endocrinology experts were trained at some of the top programs in the nation and exclusively evaluate and treat newborns, infants, children, teens and young adults. The CHOC Endocrinology Program offers care for disorders such as:

8 Ways to Protect Children with Diabetes from COVID-19

We know how frightening the spread of the 2019 novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) may be for parents – especially parents of children with diabetes.

CHOC endocrinology can be reached during daytime hours at 714-509-8634. During evenings and weekends, call 714-509-8634 and your call will be forwarded to an operator.

Featured Endocrinology Stories

Diabetes

Managing big life transitions with type 1 diabetes: Q&A with college student Sabrina

With valuable support from CHOC’s Adolescent to Adult Bridge Program (A2B), Sabrina learned how to balance her chronic illness with a busy academic and social life.

CHOC Health

Endocrinology

Is a keto diet healthy for my child with diabetes?

Are ketogenic diets a healthy option for children with diabetes? A CHOC expert explains the risks of keto diets for kids with diabetes.

CHOC Health

Diabetes

‘Type 1 diabetes is a part of who I am’: Hamza’s Story

With help from CHOC, Hamza’s learned how to manage his Type 1 diabetes and still enjoys his favorite foods and activities.

CHOC Health

Molly Pearce before undergoing thyroid cancer survery

Cancer / Oncology

Undergoing thyroid cancer surgery: Molly’s story

After undergoing two thyroid surgeries to remove cancerous cells, Molly receives ongoing care at CHOC and is thriving in life.

CHOC Health

Katrina addresses the crowd at a Katrina Kures fundraiser

Diabetes

From CHOC patient to CHOC donor: Katrina’s story

Katrina was treated for type 1 diabetes at CHOC throughout her childhood. Now an adult, she’s fighting to find a cure.

CHOC Health

Young girl writing CHOC on the floor with chalk

Cancer / Oncology

CHOC recognized as one of nation’s best children’s hospitals

CHOC has been chosen from pediatric facilities nationwide to be ranked as one of the best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

CHOC Health

Recognized for Cutting-Edge Advancements and Treatments

CHOC’s endocrinology program is consistently ranked among the top 30 of Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. As of 2024, CHOC has earned a spot among Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 36 hospitals and health systems with great diabetes and endocrinology programs.

Our team of board-certified endocrinologists and specialists provides diagnostic evaluations and the latest minimally invasive, leading-edge treatments for newborns, adolescents and young adults.

Annually, the diabetes program diagnoses and treats over 3,000 Type 1 diabetes patients and 800 Type 2 diabetes patients, utilizing digital retinal imaging, point-of-care urine microalbumin and point-of-care lipid screenings. In collaboration with other subspecialties, the program also supports patients through the Endocrine Effects of Cancer Survivorship program, thyroid cancer program and cystic fibrosis-related diabetes program.

Pediatric endocrinologists also help support families by developing an individualized approach to early diagnosis and complications management associated with Prader-Willi Syndrome. Part of an ongoing dedication to equity and access to care, CHOC partners with organizations to offer low- to no-cost genetic testing.