Steven B. Nagelberg, M.D.
Chief, Section of Endocrinology


Frankford's Section of Endocrinology comprises physicians who are board-certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism. Endocrinologists diagnose and treat disorders related to the endocrine system - a complex array of glands that produce and secrete chemical messengers (hormones) that have both specific and ubiquitous effects on all of our body's tissues and cells.

The most common disorders that endocrinologists deal with are diabetes and thyroid diseases. Other examples include disorders of the pituitary gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands and gonads (testes and ovaries). Common clinical problems such as osteoporosis, hyperlipidemia, menstrual disorders, hirsutism (excess body hair in women) and obesity all fall into the endocrinologist's specialty domain.

Frankford Hospitals' endocrinologists are available for inpatient consultations at all three divisions of the hospital (Frankford, Torresdale and Bucks County). Consultation requests are answered promptly and close clinical follow-up is provided on a daily basis if needed. Endocrinologists are particularly helpful in managing a patient's diabetes in the hospital. Whether a person is admitted for elective or emergency surgery, heart attack, stroke or abdominal problems, their diabetes must be managed. The endocrinology subspecialist is able to concentrate solely on the patient's diabetes and related problems (such as electrolyte disorders) and thus plays a key role in the patient's care throughout their hospital stay.

Frankford's endocrinologists are also available for outpatient consultations in a number of different offices in Northeast Philadelphia and lower Bucks County. Every effort is made to see patients on a timely basis. Special laboratory tests may be performed in the endocrinologist's office. Fine needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules is also an everyday procedure in the endocrinologist's office.

Frankford's endocrinologists work closely with the hospital's Diabetes Program. This program is an extremely helpful resource in helping patients learn about and cope with their diabetes. We encourage all patients with diabetes to attend these classes so that they may learn self-management skills and proper nutrition. Most importantly, patients learn the importance of good blood sugar control in preventing complications of diabetes. Call the Diabetes Program at 215-831-2122.