THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

The Endocrine System

Pituitary GlandThe Pituitary Gland is a pea-sized structure hanging from the base of the brain. One of the pituitarys more important roles is regulation of growth. 1. Giantism2. Dwarfism3. AcromegalyAlso, called the Master Gland.

Pituitary Gland

Thyroid GlandThe Thyroid gland is located in the neck, it regulates metabolism. Because metabolism is the rate at which energy is produced and expended in the body.1. Hypothyrodism2. Cretinism3. Hyperthyrodism

Thyroid Gland

Parathyroid GlandThe parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands in the neck, usually located behind the thyroid gland, which produce parathormone. It is the hormone necessary to control the balance of various minerals in the bloodstream especially calcium. Parathormone is absolutely essential for life.

Parathyroid Gland

Adrenal GlandThe adrenal glands produce hormones that help control the heart rate, blood pressure, the way the body uses food, and other vital functions. 1. Adrenal cortex secretes steroid (cortisone-related) hormones and mineralocortoids that regulate the levels of minerals such as sodium and potassium in the blood. 2. Adrenal medulla is the inner part of the adrenal gland, is not essential to life, but helps a person in coping with physical and emotional stress

Adrenal Gland

Islets of LangerhansThese are group of cells located in the pancreas. They secrete insulin that is needed in the regulation of blood sugar by the cells. Its primary function is to control the metabolism of glucose.

Islets of Langerhans

Sex Glands (Gonads)The ovaries for females produce estrogen and progesterone. The estrogenic hormones are uniquely responsible for the growth and development of female sexual characteristics and reproduction in both humans and animals. Progesterone is often called the pregnancy hormone.

Sex Glands (Gonads)Testosterone is the androgenic hormone primarily responsible for normal growth and development of male sex and reproductive organs. It facilitates the development of secondary male sex characteristics