2. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
The endocrine system is a
messenger system comprising feedback loops of
the hormones released by internal glands of an
organism directly into the circulatory system,
regulating distant target organs.
3. Hypothalamus
The hypothalamus is located at the base of the
brain, near the optic chiasm
where the optic nerves
behind each eye cross and meet.
The hypothalamus
secretes hormones that stimulate or suppress the
release of hormones in the pituitary gland, in
addition to controlling water balance, sleep,
temperature, appetite, and blood pressure.
4. Pineal body
The pineal body is located below the corpus
callosum, in the middle of the brain. It produces the
hormone melatonin, which helps the body know
when it's time to sleep.
5. Pituitary gland
The pituitary gland is located below the brain.
Usually no larger than a pea, the gland controls
many functions of the other endocrine glands.
6. Thyroid and parathyroid
The thyroid gland and parathyroid glands are
located in front of the neck, below the larynx (voice
box). The thyroid plays an important role in the
body's metabolism. The parathyroid glands play an
important role in the regulation of the body's
calcium balance.
7. Thymus
The thymus is located in the upper part of the chest
and produces white blood cells that fight infections
and destroy abnormal cells.
Maturation of T lymphocytes
8. Adrenal gland
An adrenal gland is located on top of each kidney.
Like many glands, the adrenal glands work hand-
in-hand with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
The adrenal glands make and release corticosteroid
hormones and epinephrine that maintain blood
pressure and regulate metabolism.
9. Pancreas
The pancreas is located across the back of the
abdomen, behind the stomach. The pancreas plays a
role in digestion, as well as hormone production.
Hormones produced by the pancreas include insulin
and glucagon, which regulate levels of blood sugar.
10. Ovary
A woman's ovaries are located on both sides of the
uterus, below the opening of the fallopian tubes
(tubes that extend from the uterus to the ovaries). In
addition to containing the egg cells necessary for
reproduction, the ovaries also produce estrogen and
progesterone.
11. Testis
Testis A man's testes are located in a pouch that
hangs suspended outside the male body. The testes
produce testosterone and sperm.
13. Common symptoms of Cushing’s
syndrome
Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome include:
Buffalo hump (fat between the shoulder blades)
Skin discoloration such as bruising
Fatigue
Feeling very thirsty
Thinning and weakening of the bones (osteoporosis)
Frequent urination
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Irritability and mood changes
Obesity of the upper body
Rounded “moon“ face
Weakness (loss of strength)
14. Acromegaly / Gigantism
Acromegaly / Gigantism is a disorder in which the
pituitary gland overproduces growth hormone. This
leads to symptoms of overgrowth, especially of the
hands and feet.
15. Common symptoms of Acromegaly /
Gigantism
Abnormally large lips, nose or tongue
Abnormally large or swollen hands or feet
Altered facial bone structure
Body and joint aches
Deep voice
Fatigue and weakness
Headaches
Overgrowth of bone and cartilage and thickening of the skin
Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido
Sleep apnea
Vision impairment