The metabolic syndrome (MS) is characterized by alterations in carbohydrate metabolism, obesity, hypertension and dislipidemia. These metabolic alterations interfere with some endocrine axes controlled by the hypothalamus and the pituitary. Central obesity might be associated to a state of subclinical hypercortisolism and hypertension, secondary to an activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. MS is also a state of relative hyposomatotropism, probably related to visceral fat. Furthermore, high levels of free fat acids and hyperinsulinemia, secondary to insulin resistance, can contribute to a blockade of the somatotropic axis. In men, MS is related to a state of hypogonadism caused by impairment in gonadotropin secretion and testosterone production. Women exhibit excessive androgen production, secondary to hyperinsulinemia, high levels of LH and to an increase in aromatase activity. In summary, MS is a condition linked to important modifications in feedback mechanisms responsible for the correct functioning of the neuroendocrine axes.
Metabolic syndrome; Obesity; Adrenal; Hormones; Growth hormone