Endocrine System: Parathyroid Glands

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Endocrine System

The endocrine system is made of many glands—groups of


cells that release chemical substances called hormones into
the bloodstream. Hormones influence and regulate diverse
activities such as metabolism, growth, mental development,
and emotional behavior.
Parathyroid Glands
The parathyroid glands are four small glands located in the
neck behind the thyroid gland. These glands secrete a
hormone that regulates the body’s use of calcium and
phosphorus to maintain healthy bones. Parathyroid hormone
also affects muscle contraction and the conduction of nerve
impulses.
Adrenals Glands
The adrenals are two small glands, each located on the top of
one kidney. These two glands consist of an inner core, called
the adrenal medulla, and an outer area, known as the adrenal
cortex. The adrenal medulla releases the hormone
epinephrine, which speeds up heart rate and increases blood
pressure to help the body cope with emergencies. The adrenal
cortex releases hormones that control the level of salts and
water in the blood and help regulate the use of sugar. It also
secretes small amounts of male sex hormones, or androgens,
in both males and females. Of the two parts of the adrenal
glands, only the adrenal cortex is under the control of the
pituitary gland.
Females have sex glands called ovaries that release
hormones called estrogens. These hormones contribute to the
development of female sexual characteristics, including skin,
hair, and breast development. Estrogens work with certain pituitary hormones to control the menstrual
cycle.
Ovaries(Woman)
Females have sex glands called ovaries that release hormones called estrogens. These hormones
contribute to the development of female sexual characteristics, including skin, hair, and breast
development. Estrogens work with certain pituitary hormones to control the menstrual cycle.
Testes(Man)
Males have sex glands called testes that secrete androgens, male sex hormones. In addition to
contributing to male sexual characteristics, androgens contribute to the production of sperm and the
development of the prostate gland.
Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland is a pea-sized gland located in the center of the skull. The pituitary gland acts as a
master controlling gland, releasing a number of hormones that activate other glands.
Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland, located in the neck, secretes the hormone thyroxine. Thyroxine increases body
metabolism, in which food is broken down and converted into heat and energy. Too little thyroxine in
the blood produces lethargy and fatigue, while too much thyroxine results in overactivity, nervousness,
and weight loss.
Pancreas
The pancreas is a long, narrow gland located in the abdomen behind the stomach and beneath the
liver. The pancreas secretes insulin, a hormone that regulates the body’s use of sugar. When too little
insulin is produced, the body tissues cannot use or store sugar, and a disease known as diabetes
mellitus develops.

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