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Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4

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Specializes in: Adult Endocrinology

University of Illinois College of Medicine

Professional interests include: type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid problems, and more.

5758 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

1-888-824-0200

Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 is an endocrinologist in Chicago, IL specializing in adult endocrinology. She graduated from University of Illinois College of Medicine. Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 is affiliated with The University of Chicago Medicine, UChicago Medicine and UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO.

Office Locations

Address:

355 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

Address:

5758 S. Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

Address:

5841 S Maryland Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

Some issues Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 can help you with:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common endocrine disorder that causes symptoms such as acne, facial hair, and weight gain. It is often diagnosed when patients experience problems getting pregnant, because PCOS can interfere with ovulation. There is no cure for PCOS, but there are effective treatments that can lessen the severity of the symptoms.

Despite the name, not everyone with polycystic ovarian syndrome develops cysts on their ovaries. It is also possible to have ovarian cysts without having PCOS. The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome are actually related to insulin resistance, a condition where the insulin made by the body is not effectively recognized by the cells. This causes the pancreas to release higher levels of insulin in order to keep blood sugar levels stable, and the excess insulin interferes with hormone production in the pituitary and ovaries, causing the PCOS symptoms.

The symptoms of PCOS include:

Weight gain
Acne
Facial or body hair
Thinning head hair
Missing or irregular periods
Infertility

PCOS is a syndrome, which means that if patients have PCOS, they might not have each and every symptom. Even a few of them might be enough to have physicians check for polycystic ovarian syndrome. A doctor might perform an exam and order blood tests to measure hormone levels.

Treatment for PCOS may include:

Insulin sensitizers, which help the body use insulin more effectively, lowering hormone levels. The most commonly used insulin sensitizer is metformin.
Weight loss. Being overweight does not cause PCOS, and PCOS can make losing weight difficult. Still, weight loss can improve symptoms for many women.
Birth control pills to regulate menstruation and sometimes reduce symptoms such as acne.
Fertility medications, especially medications to stimulate ovulation such as clomiphene.
Anti-androgen medications, which work to treat symptoms such as acne and facial hair.
Low-carb diets, which work similarly to insulin sensitizers to lower hormone levels and help reduce weight.
Ovarian drilling or resectioning, surgical procedures sometimes performed if infertility is a persistent problem. These procedures open up the wall of the ovary to temporarily make ovulation more likely.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women. Left untreated, it can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Fortunately there are many good treatment options available.

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

doctor visit	138
hospital care	21
inpatient care	21

**Gender**
Male	48
Female	111

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	0
Black	83
Hispanic	42
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	58
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	66

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	65
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	41
Depression	25
Chronic Kidney Disease	48
Asthma	15
Osteoperosis	21
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	31
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	16
Diabetes	72
Dementia	8
Cancer	7

doctor visit	76
hospital care	84
inpatient care	84

**Gender**
Male	41
Female	50

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	0
Black	53
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	36
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	34

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	55
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	55
Depression	36
Chronic Kidney Disease	59
Asthma	21
Osteoperosis	0
Atrial Fibrilation	25
Heart Failure	51
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	29
Diabetes	75
Dementia	14
Cancer	14

doctor visit	93
hospital care	60
inpatient care	60

**Gender**
Male	92
Female	120

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	0
Black	142
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	76
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	86

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	62
Stroke	14
Ischemic Heart Disease	51
Depression	34
Chronic Kidney Disease	61
Asthma	24
Osteoperosis	0
Atrial Fibrilation	20
Heart Failure	47
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	27
Diabetes	75
Dementia	14
Cancer	18

doctor visit	155
hospital care	56
inpatient care	56

**Gender**
Male	57
Female	85

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	0
Black	96
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	55
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	53

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	62
Stroke	13
Ischemic Heart Disease	50
Depression	27
Chronic Kidney Disease	75
Asthma	29
Osteoperosis	8
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	43
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	26
Diabetes	75
Dementia	18
Cancer	15

doctor visit	254
hospital care	19
inpatient care	19

**Gender**
Male	69
Female	117

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	53
Black	118
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	66
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	77

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	51
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	51
Depression	35
Chronic Kidney Disease	73
Asthma	14
Osteoperosis	9
Atrial Fibrilation	6
Heart Failure	37
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	75
Dementia	13
Cancer	12

doctor visit	320
hospital care	58
inpatient care	58

**Gender**
Male	85
Female	120

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	56
Black	124
Hispanic	12
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	86
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	73

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	58
Stroke	15
Ischemic Heart Disease	47
Depression	31
Chronic Kidney Disease	69
Asthma	15
Osteoperosis	7
Atrial Fibrilation	15
Heart Failure	38
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	19
Diabetes	75
Dementia	18
Cancer	12

doctor visit	298
hospital care	102
inpatient care	102

**Gender**
Male	87
Female	145

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	63
Black	140
Hispanic	18
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	95
From 75 to 84	44
85 and over	11
Less than 65	82

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	63
Stroke	7
Ischemic Heart Disease	48
Depression	34
Chronic Kidney Disease	71
Asthma	15
Osteoperosis	10
Atrial Fibrilation	13
Heart Failure	45
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	24
Diabetes	75
Dementia	15
Cancer	15

doctor visit	139
hospital care	18
inpatient care	18

**Gender**
Male	43
Female	92

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	0
Black	86
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	51
From 75 to 84	30
85 and over	13
Less than 65	41

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	58
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	48
Depression	29
Chronic Kidney Disease	73
Asthma	13
Osteoperosis	12
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	39
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	16
Diabetes	71
Dementia	12
Cancer	15

doctor visit	497
hospital care	47
inpatient care	47

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 treated as an endocrinologist in Chicago, IL were hospital care and inpatient care.

doctor visit	221
hospital care	51
inpatient care	51

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4.

**Gender**
Male	52
Female	84

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	84
Asian / Pacific Islander	0
Non-Hispanic White	17
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	7
Other	0

**Age**
75 to 84	7
85 and over	2
Less than 65	51
65 to 74	52

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 treated were hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease and high cholesterol.

Hypertension	60
High Cholesterol	47
Stroke	5
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	25
Chronic Kidney Disease	52
Asthma	14
Osteoporosis	6
Heart Failure	33
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	59
Atrial Fibrillation	10
Cancer	10
Dementia	11

Education & Training

Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 graduated from University of Illinois College of Medicine. She completed residency at Northwestern University Affiliated Hospitals. She has a state license in Illinois.

Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine

Residency: Northwestern University Affiliated Hospitals

Licensed In: Illinois

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4 is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

The University of Chicago Medicine

UChicago Medicine

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

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General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Susan Sam, MD, MSc 4. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Novo Nordisk Inc	$128 Saxenda $122	NovoLog $7
Astellas Pharma US Inc	$101 AmBisome $101
MannKind Corporation	$20 AFREZZA $20
GlaxoSmithKline, LLC.	$18 BEXSERO $18

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$248
Education	$20

Biography

Dr. Susan Sam practices adult endocrinology. In her practice, Dr. Sam focuses on thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and type 2 diabetes. She is professionally affiliated with The University of Chicago Medicine. Dr. Sam attended the University of Illinois College of Medicine and then went on to complete her residency at a hospital affiliated with Northwestern University.