Why Pediatric Endocrinology Matters

Understanding Hormones, Growth, and Development in Children

By Lefke Karaviti, MD, PhD

Parents often sense when something about their child’s growth or development doesn’t feel quite right—whether growth seems off track, puberty feels early or delayed, or changes in energy, weight, or blood sugar raise questions.

These concerns are common—and they are exactly where pediatric endocrinology plays a vital role.

Pediatric endocrinology focuses on how hormones guide growth, development, metabolism, and maturation in children and adolescents. Hormones influence height, puberty, bone health, blood sugar, and reproductive development. Because children are actively growing, even small hormonal differences can meaningfully affect both physical development and emotional well-being.

Children Are Not Small Adults

Pediatric endocrinology is not simply adult endocrinology applied to children. Hormone levels shift rapidly across childhood and adolescence, and what is normal at one age may be concerning at another. Growth patterns and pubertal timing must be interpreted in the context of development—not just lab values.

This specialized training allows pediatric endocrinologists to distinguish between normal variation and true medical concerns, balancing careful observation with timely intervention. In many cases, reassurance and education are just as important as treatment.

Why Pediatric Endocrinology Matters

Early, thoughtful evaluation can support healthy growth, prevent long-term complications, and reduce stress for families. Common concerns include growth differences, early or delayed puberty, thyroid disorders, diabetes, adrenal or pituitary conditions, disorders of sex development (DSD), bone health, and metabolic concerns.

Some children need treatment. Others need monitoring over time. Many simply need clarity—an understanding of what is normal, what is not, and what to expect next.

Why I Chose Pediatric Endocrinology

I chose pediatric endocrinology because it allows me to care for children at moments when growth, development, and identity are actively unfolding—and when thoughtful guidance can have a lasting impact.

Hormones quietly shape how children grow, mature, and experience their bodies. In pediatrics, timing matters. Knowing when to intervene—and when reassurance is the best medicine—can change a child’s trajectory.

What continues to draw me to this field is the opportunity to walk alongside children and families over time. Pediatric endocrinology is rarely a single visit or a quick answer. It is about listening carefully, explaining clearly, and helping families navigate uncertainty with confidence and calm.

At its heart, my work is about bringing clarity when things feel confusing and supporting families through some of the most important years of a child’s life.

A Final Thought

Not every variation requires treatment—but every concern deserves careful attention. Pediatric endocrinology exists to provide perspective, evidence-based guidance, and support as children grow. If you have questions about your child’s development or hormonal health, asking those questions is the right place to start.8