Endocrinopathies and the Salivary Glands

The function of the endocrine system is to produce the hormones that regulate the metabolism of specific cells and organs. Any disturbance in the production or activity of these hormones will produce alterations in the physiologic activity of the target cell or organ. Abnormal symptomatology will develop and can be recognized clinically. Several endocrine conditions have a known impact upon the salivary glands. Endocrine conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome and acromegaly can be associated with salivary gland abnormalities.