About the endocrinology department

What the endocrinology department at The Christie does

The endocrinology department at The Christie welcomes patients with all hormone-related diseases. As we are based in The Christie, we have a special interest in benign and malignant tumours of the hormone-releasing glands. We also support of patients with cancer who experience hormone-related complications during or after treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. 

Our diabetes team manages the extra needs of patients with cancer and diabetes.  The department plays a major part in Christie’s commitment to supporting patients who are ‘Living with and Beyond Cancer’ (LWBC). 

Our services and clinics are based in our dedicated endocrinology unit. We have a very active research programme, including trials of new treatments. 

Radiotherapy, including proton beam therapy, is available to treat patients. For hormonally-active cancers, we work closely with our cancer specialist colleagues to deliver appropriate treatments, such as chemotherapy. 

In addition, The Christie has one of the busiest radioiodine services for hyperthyroidism in the country.

Why The Christie is a leading endocrinology centre

The endocrinology department at The Christie has been an internationally recognised centre of clinical and academic excellence for several decades. The first childhood leukaemia survivor in the world to receive growth hormone for short stature was treated in the endocrine department at The Christie. Also, pioneering work of global impact on the hormonal complications of successful cancer treatment was undertaken at The Christie. 

Dr Claire Higham is part of the ‘Living with and Beyond Cancer’ patient care programme and has an MRC-supported research programme. The department is integral to the care of patients admitted with treatment complications. It also offers long-term support for patients experiencing complications of various cancer treatments. 

The endocrinology department has played a leading role in the development of new therapies for pituitary disease and continues to be at the forefront of new therapies for pituitary and adrenal disease. We also have access to the latest laboratory methods like liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy. This improves our diagnostic capabilities and ability to monitor treatment.

Every month, we ask our patients if they would be happy for their friends or family members to be treated in the endocrinology department at The Christie. In June 2020, 100% of patients gave a positive response.