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Endocrine System
INTRODUCTION
Abnormal findings in other body systems may be associated with hypersecretion or hyposecretion of hormones, and some of these findings may persist indefinitely, even after therapy of the underlying hormonal dysfunction. Such impairment should be evaluated in accordance with criteria in the appropriate sections, and when appropriate, impairment ratings of other body systems should be combined with impairment ratings based on this section, using the Combined Values Chart to determine impairment of the whole person.
Neoplasms of the endocrine glands may produce nonhormonal permanent impairments manifested by pain or by effects involving other body systems. Such impairments should be evaluated with criteria set forth in the sections concerning the respective body systems. It is recognized that, in addition to those discussed in this section, other abnormalities may occur that involve the endocrine system. If such abnormalities produce permanent impairment, the physician should attempt to assign a value based on the degree of the impairment and one that is consistent with established values.
The focus of this section is the evaluation of physical impairment that may result from endocrine dysfunction. Since many of the endocrine abnormalities produce cosmetic and/or psychological abnormalities, the evaluator may wish to consider the criteria for impairment from mental and behavioral disorders. Similarly, many of the abnormalities require chronic replacement medications, perhaps for the lifetime of the individual. At the discretion of the evaluating physician, an added impairment of 0% to 5% may be allotted for this aspect of an endocrine disorder.
HYPOTHALAMIC PITUITARY AXIS
Class 1. Impairment of the Whole Person, 1—10%
A patient with hypothalamic-pituitary disease belongs in Class 1 when the disease can be controlled effectively with continuous treatment.
Class 2. Impairment of the Whole Person, 11—24%
A patient with hypothalamic-pituitary disease belongs in Class 2 when the symptoms and signs are inadequately controlled by treatment.
Class 3 Impairment of the Whole Person, 25—50%
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