A child's growth is regulated by the complex interaction of hormones created by the glands of the body's endocrine system. If you were to study the remarkable system required for normal growth and function, it would come as no surprise that many children have system imbalances that upset growth and development patterns.

The Pediatric Endocrinology & Nutrition Services (PENS) help to restore the system's balance and allow a child to grow up strong and healthy.

Conditions treated at PENS include:

• Pediatric diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus type I and type II, hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance
• Growth disorders including short stature, delayed growth and rapid growth
• Abnormalities of the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands
• Sexual development and puberty concerns
• Bone development
• Mineral absorption of calcium, phosphorous and others

The team, under the medical direction of a pediatric diabetes/endocrine specialist, is made up of a pediatric diabetic/encocrine nurse specialist, a pediatric nurse practitioner, pediatric diabetes educators, pediatric nutritionists, clinical social workers, an exercise physiologist and pediatric rehabilitation specialists, as needed. These professionals provide comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment regimens. Working with the child and family, the team oversees ongoing treatment aimed at correcting imbalances.

Our pediatric endocrinologists are:

• Frank J. Gareis, M.D.
• Gnanagurndasan Prakasam, M.D.
• Bagher Sheikholislam, M.D.
• Ulhas Nadgir, M.D.

Clinical programs available include:

• Pediatric Endocrine Services


• Diabetes Program for Children & Adolescents


• Insulin Pump Therapy Program
• Pediatric Healthy Lifestyles Program

The endocrine and diabetes programs are approved by California Children's Services. Accommodating more than 1200 patient visits annually, PENS is conveniently located in one building on the Sutter Memorial Hospital campus. Classes and Support Groups are available through Sutter for children and families dealing with certain conditions. Referrals to community agencies and resources are also provided.

Outpatient services provide care to children with medical conditions that require ongoing treatment, education and support. For information on our outpatient weight control services, visit the Pediatric Healthy Lifestyles Program page or call (916) 733-1455.

For more information about PENS, call (916) 733-1025. For more information about endocrinology-related conditions and treatments available, please visit our health information section.

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