PLEASE NOTE. THE NEW 5TH EDITION OF THE BSAVA MANUAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGY IS NOW AVAILABLE HERE.

The interpretation of endocrine test results is often viewed as daunting. To a large extent, this is because the endocrine system is extremely dynamic in its response to both external and internal challenges. Consequently, a wide range of possible laboratory test results may be physiologically appropriate but can be difficult to distinguish from those found in truly pathological states. This chapter discusses diagnostic test performance, effects of non-endocrine factors and effects of endocrine disease.