Respiratory muscles in endocrinopathies

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Respiratory Medicine
• Neuromuscular Disorders

Background:

• Respiratory muscle (RM) function is vital for respiration.
• Endocrinopathies, or diseases of the endocrine system, can affect various bodily functions.
• RM weakness is a recognized complication in some endocrine disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on respiratory muscle (RM) function in endocrinopathies.
• To identify endocrine disorders associated with altered RM function and weakness.
• To highlight the need for further research into RM performance in specific endocrine conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating RM function in endocrine diseases.
• Analysis of documented and less-documented reports on RM function across various endocrinopathies.
• Identification of research gaps concerning RM function and endocrine disorders.

Main Results:

• RM weakness is a common finding in several endocrinopathies, including thyroid dysfunction and steroid-induced myopathies.
• Limited data exists for parathyroid, mineralocorticoid, and pituitary disorders.
• Controversial findings are reported in diabetes mellitus.
• No reports link RM function to androgens, pheochromocytoma, or adrenaline deficiency in humans.

Conclusions:

• Endocrinopathies can significantly alter respiratory muscle (RM) function, potentially leading to severe respiratory failure.
• Urgent investigation is needed for RM performance in Cushing's disease, Addison's disease, acromegaly, adrenal medulla disorders, and diabetes insipidus.
• Understanding these links is critical for preventing life-threatening respiratory complications.