Menu Close

Endocrine Late Effects

Some childhood cancer treatments may cause problems in the endocrine system.

How does the endocrine system work?

It is helpful to understand how the endocrine system works to learn how treatment may affect its function.

The endocrine system is a network of glands.

The hypothalamus and pituitary gland, located in the brain, are sometimes called “master glands.” Some cancer treatments, particularly radiation to the brain, may damage these glands. That damage can cause several problems.

The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland control other glands such as the:

  • Thyroid gland
  • Adrenal gland
  • Ovaries (in females)
  • Testes (in males)

These glands make hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that carry information through the bloodstream to maintain body functions.

The endocrine system controls:

  • Growth
  • Puberty
  • Energy level
  • Urine production
  • Stress response
Illustration of female endocrine system

The endocrine system is a group of glands that controls many of the body’s functions such as growth, puberty, energy level, urine production, and stress response. The male and female endocrine systems contain different organs. Females have ovaries. Males have testes.

Illustration of male endocrine system

The endocrine system is a group of glands that controls many of the body’s functions such as growth, puberty, energy level, urine production, and stress response. The male and female endocrine systems contain different organs. Males have testes. Females have ovaries.

—
Reviewed: November 2019

Related Content

  • Long-Term and Late Effects of Cancer Treatment

    The treatments that cure cancer can also have certain long-term and late side effects. Learn about which treatments are linked to certain late effects.

  • Growth Hormone Deficiency

    Childhood cancer survivors who had certain cancers and treatments affecting the pituitary gland may have a growth hormone deficiency. This condition should be managed by an endocrinologist.

  • Thyroid Late Effects

    Sometimes certain treatments for childhood cancer can cause problems with the function of the thyroid gland. These problems may include hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.