This document discusses the endocrine system, outlining its definition, major glands, and the physiology of each gland including the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands, among others. It details the hormones secreted by these glands and their functions, such as growth regulation and metabolic control. Additionally, it describes methods used for diagnostic evaluation of hormonal levels and functions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hormonal health.

1. KGMU COLLEGE OF NURSING
TOPIC-ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
Presented By:
Mr. Vishal Dubey
M.Sc. Nursing 1st Year (2023-2025)
KGMU College Of Nursing
KING GEORGE’S MEDICAL UNIVERSITY, LUCKNOW,U.P.

2. 2
1. Define Endrocrine system.
2. Define Endocrine gland.
3. Explain types of Endocrine gland.
4. To explain the anatomy physiology of Hypothalamus and the functions of hormone.
5. To explain the anatomy physiology of Pituitary gland and the functions of hormone.
6. To explain the anatomy physiology of Pineal gland and the functions of hormone.
7. To explain the anatomy physiology of Thyroid gland and the functions of hormone.
8. To explain the anatomy physiology of Parathyroid gland and the functions of hormone.
9. To explain the anatomy physiology of Adrenal gland and the functions of hormone.
10. To explain the anatomy physiology of Pancreatic islets and the functions of hormone.
11. Elaborate Diagnostic evaluation of endocrine system.
OBJECTIVES
OBJECTIVES
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

3. INTRODUCTION
• The endocrine system consists of glands widely
separated from each other with no physical
connections.
• The endocrine system is contrasted both to
exocrine glands and endocrine glands.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

4. ENDOCRINE GLANDS
• Endocrine glands are groups of secretory cells
surrounded by an extensive network of capillaries that
facilitates diffusion of hormones from the secretory cells
into the bloodstream.
• They are also referred to as ductless glands because
hormones diffuse directly into the bloodstream.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

5. The major glands of the endocrine system are
1. Hypothalamus
2. Pituitary gland
3. Pineal gland
4. Thyroid gland
5. Adrenal glands
6. Pancreatic islets
7. Ovaries
8. Testicles
ENDOCRINE GLANDS
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

6. HYPOTHALAMUS
• The Hypothalamus is located
below the thalamus and it is a
part of limbic system.
• It is a size of almond.
• It is responsible for
regulating certain metabolic
process and other activities of
autonomic nervous system.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

7. • It synthesize and secretes
certain neurohormones called
releasing Hormones.
• Hypothalamus control body
temperature, hunger,thirst,
sleep etc.
HYPOTHALAMUS
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

8. PITUITARY GLAND
• The pituitary gland lies in the
hypophyseal fossa of the
sphenoid bone below the
hypothalamus, to which it is
attached by a stalk.
• The pituitary gland sits in a
protective bony enclosure
called sella turcica.
• Acc. to weight Size- 500 mg
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

9. • Pituitary gland is composed of the Anterior pituitary
lobe, Posterior pituitary lobe, and the intermediate
lobe that joins them.
• The anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) is an upgrowth
of glandular epithelium from the pharynx and the
posterior pituitary (neurohypophysis) a downgrowth of
nervous tissue from the brain.
• Hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary are called
Trophic hormones.
PITUITARY GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

10. PITUITARY GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

11. GROWTH HORMONE
• This is the most abundant hormone synthesised by the
anterior pituitary.
• It stimulate the growth and division of most body cells
but especially in the bones and skeletal muscles.
• Secretion of GH is greater at night during sleep and is
also stimulated by hypoglycemia, exercise, anxiety.
• Secretion peaks in adolescence and then decline with
age.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

12. THYROID STIMULATING
HORMONE
• The release of TSH is stimulated by TRH from the
hypothalamus.
• It stimulates growth and activity of the thyroid gland
which secretes the hormone T4 and T3.
• Release is lowest in the early morning and highest
during the night.
• When the blood level of thyroid hormones is high,
secretion of TSH is reduced, and vice versa.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

13. ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC
HORMONE
• Corticotropin releasing hormone from the hypothalamus
promotes the synthesis and release of ACTH by the
anterior pituitary.
• ACTH levels are highest at about early in the morning
and fall to their lowest about midnight.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

14. PROLACTIN
• This hormone is secreted during pregnancy to prepare
the breast for lactation after childbirth.
• Suckling stimulates prolactin secretion and lactation.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

15. GONADOTROPIN
• Just before puberty two gonadotrophins (sex hormones)
are secreted by the anterior pituitary in response to
luteinising hormone releasing hormone (LHRH), also
known as gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH).
In both males and females the hormones responsible
are:-
• Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Luteinising hormone (LH).
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

16. POSTERIOR PITUITARY
• The posterior pituitary is formed from nervous tissue
and consists of nerve cells surrounded by supporting
glial cells.
• These neurones have their cell bodies in the
supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the
hypothalamus and their axons form a bundle known a
the hypothalamohypophyseal tract.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

17. • Posterior pituitary mainly of neuronal projection of
magno cellular neurosecretory cells extending from
supraoptic and para ventricular cells of hypothalamus
Two regions of Posterior pituitary:-
1. Pars nervosa
2. Infundibulam stalk
POSTERIOR PITUITARY
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

18. The hormone release from axon terminal within the
posterior pituitary are:-
• Oxytocin
• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
POSTERIOR PITUITARY
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

19. OXYTOCIN
Oxytocin stimulates two target tissues during and
after childbirth (parturition):
• Uterine smooth muscle.
• The muscle cells of the lactating breast.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

20. ANTIDIURETIC HORMONE (ADH)
• The main effect of antidiuretic hormone is to reduce
urine output.
• ADH acts on the distal convoluted tubules and
collecting ducts of the nephrons of the kidneys.
• It increases their permeability to water and more of
the glomerular filtrate is reabsorbed.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

21. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

22. PINEAL GLAND
• The pineal gland is a
small body attached to
the roof of the third
ventricle and is
connected to it by a
short stalk containing
nerves, many of which
terminate in the
hypothalamus. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

23. • The pineal gland is
about 10 mm long,
reddish brown in colour
and surrounded by a
capsule.
• The gland tends to
atrophy after puberty
and may become
calcified in later life.
PINEAL GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

24. MELATONIN
Melatonin is the main hormone secreted by the
pineal gland.
• Secretion is controlled by daylight and darkness level
fluctuate during each 24-hour period, the being
highest at night and the lowest around midday.
• Secretion is also influenced by the number of daylight
hours.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

25. Melatonin is associated with:
• Coordination of the circadian and diurnal rhythms of
many tissues, possibly by influencing the
hypothalamus
• Inhibition of growth and development of the sex
organs before puberty, possibly by preventing
synthesis or release of gonadotrophins
MELATONIN
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

26. THYROID GLAND
• The thyroid gland is situated in
the neck in front of the larynx
and trachea at the level of the
5th, 6th and 7th cervical and 1st
thoracic vertebrae.
• It is a highly vascular gland that
weighs about 25 g and is
surrounded by a fibrous capsule.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

27. • It resembles a butterfly in shape,
consisting of two lobes, one on
either side of the thyroid cartilage
and upper cartilaginous rings of the
trachea.
• The lobes are joined by a narrow
isthmus, lying in front of the
trachea.
• The lobes are roughly cone shaped,
THYROID GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

28. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

29. T 3 - T4
Tri- iodothyronine T3 and Thyroxine T4
Secretion of T3 and T4 begins:
• Third month of fetal life and increases at puberty and in
women during the reproductive years, especially during
pregnancy.
T3 and T4 affect most cells of the body by:
• Increasing the basal metabolic rate and heat production.
• Regulating metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

30. CALCITONIN
• This hormone is secreted by the parafollicular or C-cells
in the thyroid gland.
• Calcitonin lowers raised blood calcium (Ca) levels.
It does this by acting on:-
• Bone cells promoting their storage of calcium
• Kidney tubules inhibiting the reabsorption of calcium
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

31. PARATHYROID GLAND
• There are four small
parathyroid glands,
each weighing around
50 g, two embedded
in the posterior
surface of each lobe
of the thyroid gland.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

32. • They are surrounded
by fine connective
tissue capsules that
contain spherical cells
arranged in columns
with sinusoids
containing blood in
between them.
PARATHYROID GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

33. • Parathyroid glands secrete parathyroid hormone.
• Secretion is regulated by blood calcium levels.
• When they fall, secretion of PTH is increased and vice
versa.
• The main function of PTH is to increase blood calcium
levels.
• Parathormone and calcitonin from the thyroid gland act in a
complementary manner to maintain blood calcium levels
within the normal range.
PARATHYROID GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

34. PARATHYROID HORMONE
This is needed for:
• Muscle contraction.
• Transmission of nerve impulses.
• Blood clotting.
• Normal action of many enzymes.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

35. ADRENAL GLAND
• The two adrenal
(suprarenal) glands
are situated on the
upper pole of each
kidney enclosed
within the renal
fascia.
• They are about 4 cm
long and 3 cm thick.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

36. • The glands are
composed of two parts
which have different
structures and
functions.
• The outer part is the
cortex and the inner
part the medulla.
ADRENAL GLAND
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

37. ADRENAL CORTEX
• The adrenal cortex produces three groups of steroid hormones
from cholesterol.
• Collectively called adrenocorticocoids (corticosteroids).
The groups are:
• Glucocorticoids- Homeostasis and adaptation to
environmental changes.
• Mineralocorticoids- Promotes sodium and potassium
transport.
• Sex hormones (androgens)- Male sexual and reproductive
function.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

38. ADRENAL MEDULLA
• The medulla is completely surrounded by the adrenal
cortex.
• It develops from nervous tissue in the embryo and is
part of the sympathetic nervous system.
• When stimulated by extensive sympathetic nerve
supply, the glands release the hormones adrenaline
(epinephrine, 80%) and noradrenaline
(norepinephrine, 20%).
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

39. PANCREATIC ISLETS
• The endocrine pancreas consists of clusters of cells,
known as the pancreatic islets (islets of Langerhans).
• Scattered throughout the gland.
• Pancreatic hormones are secreted directly into the
bloodstream and circulate throughout the body.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

40. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

41. • There are three main types of cells in the pancreatic
islets:
• α (alpha) cells- which secrete glucagon
• β (beta) cells- which are the most numerous secrete
insulin.
• δ (delta) cells- which secrete somatostatin/ Growth
Hormone Inhibiting Hormone (GHRIH)
PANCREATIC ISLETS
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

42. OVARIES
• The ovaries are the primary
female reproductive organs.
They are almond-shaped
glands located on either side
of the uterus in the lower
abdomen . They play two
crucial roles in the endocrine
system:
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

43. • Estrogen: Estrogen is a group of hormones
responsible for stimulating the development of female
secondary sexual characteristics such as breasts, body
fat distribution, and regulation of the menstrual cycle.
• Progesterone: Progesterone works alongside
estrogen to regulate the menstrual cycle. It prepares
the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for
implantation of a fertilized egg and supports
pregnancy.
OVARIES
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

44. TESTES
• The testes are the male reproductive organs
located within the scrotum, a sac-like structure.
• The testes produce the primary male sex
hormone, testosterone.
• Testosterone is responsible for the development
of male secondary sexual characteristics such as
facial and body hair, muscle mass, and a deeper
voice.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

45. TESTES
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

46. Blood tests are used to determine the levels of
• Circulating hormones.
• Presence of autoantibodies.
• Effect of a specific hormone (the effect of insulin on
blood glucose levels).
• The serum levels of a specific hormone may provide
information to determine the presence of hypofunction
or hyperfunction and the site of dysfunction.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

47. Urine tests are used to measure
• Amount of hormones or the end products of hormones
excreted by the kidneys.
• One-time specimens or, in some disorders, 24-hour
urine specimens are collected to measure hormones or
their metabolites. For example, urinary levels of free
catecholamines (norepinephrine, epinephrine, and
dopamine) may be measured in patients with suspected
tumors of the adrenal medulla (pheochromocytoma).
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

48. Imaging tests:
• X-rays
• CT scans
• MRIs to visualize glands.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

49. Noninvasive Endocrine Function Tests
1. Tests of Thyroid Structure and Function- MRI/CT
Scan,Fine Needles Aspiration.
2. Radioiodine Uptake.
3. Tests of Adrenal Structure and Function.
4. Tests of Pituitary Structure and Function.
5. Ultrasonogaphy
6. Radiography.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

50. Invasive Endocrine Function Tests
1. Angiography-Visualization of arterial vessels.
2. Portal Pressure Measurement.-Normal 5-10mmHg
3. Biopsy-Aspirate a core of tissue via needle for histology
study
4. Paracentesis- Obtain fluid for culture.
5. Tests of Endocrine Pancreas Function- Blood glucose
level,HbA1c.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

51. Invasive Endocrine Function Tests
6. Serum Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone.
7. Antithyroid Antibody Tests-serological test.
8. Serum T3-T4- Radioimmunoassay.
9. T3 Resin Uptake-Serum protien level high T3R depressed.
10. Serum Cholesterol-High (Primary Hypothyroidism)
11. Tests of Parathyroid Function-Serum calcium,phosphorus.
12. Aldosterone Levels.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

52. Invasive Endocrine Function Tests
13. Serum Cortisol Test/Dexamethasone Suppression-
Suspected to have hyper/hypo functioning of adrenal gland.
13. Serum Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH).
14. Plasma Renin Assays-Diffrential between primary & secondary
hyperaldosteronism.
15. Urinary Catecholamines-Adrenal medullary function.
16. Growth Hormone Levels.
DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

53. SUMMARY
To summarise, The Endocrine System: Balancing Act of the Body.
The endocrine system is a network of glands that produce hormones, chemical
messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target organs. Unlike the nervous
system, which transmits signals directly through nerves, the endocrine system's
influence is more widespread and long-lasting. Hormones act like tiny keys, unlocking
specific changes in target cells.
The major endocrine organs include:
Hypothalamus: Located at the base of the brain, the hypothalamus is the control center,
producing hormones that regulate other endocrine glands.
Pituitary gland: Often referred to as the "master gland," the pituitary gland sits just
below the hypothalamus and secretes hormones that influence growth, metabolism,
reproduction, and other essential functions.
Thyroid gland: Butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, the thyroid gland produces
hormones that regulate metabolism and heart rate. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

54. SUMMARY
Adrenal glands: Located on top of the kidneys, the adrenal glands produce several
hormones, including adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol, which help regulate blood
pressure, sugar metabolism, and immune system function.
Pancreas: Located behind the stomach, the pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine
gland. As an endocrine gland, it produces insulin and glucagon, hormones that regulate
blood sugar levels.
Pineal gland: Located deep within the brain, the pineal gland produces melatonin, a
hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles.
Physiology
The endocrine system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis, the body's internal
balance. Hormones regulate a wide range of physiological processes, including:
Metabolism: The conversion of food into energy
Growth and development: From childhood growth spurts to bone health
Mood and behavior: Influencing emotions, sleep, and appetite
Blood sugar control: Maintaining blood sugar levels within a healthy range
Electrolyte balance: Regulating the levels of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, in
the blood
Stress response: The body's "fight-or-flight" response
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

55. SUMMARY
Diagnostic Evaluation
When a doctor suspects a hormonal imbalance, they may order a variety of tests to evaluate
the endocrine system. These tests may include:
Blood tests: To measure hormone levels
Urine test:To measure Amount of hormones or the end products of hormones excreted by
the kidneys.
Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize glands
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

56. CONCLUSION
The endocrine system is a complex and interconnected network that
plays a vital role in keeping our bodies functioning properly. By
understanding the anatomy, physiology, and diagnostic evaluation of
the endocrine system, we can appreciate its delicate balance and the
importance of maintaining hormonal health.
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

57. 1. Types of Endocrine gland?
2. Growth hormone synthesized by?
3. Thyroid gland situated in ?
4. Adrenal gland produces steroid hormones collectively called?
RECAPTUALISATION
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

58. What are the function of hormones released from the posterior
pituitary gland ?
ASSIGNMENT
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

59. BIBLIOGRAPHY
• Kumari Neelam, Textbook of community health nursing; Volume 1;
PV book Publications; 5th edition, 2017; Page no. 542-545.
• Prof. RP Saxena; Textbook of community health nursing Nursing;
lotus Publications; Volume 2; 3rd edition, 2020; Page No. 526-530.
• BT basvathapa, "Textbook of medical surgical nursing" third edition,
jaypee publication page no 765 to 769.
• Brunner and sudharth’s, Textbook of Medical Surgical Nursing,
2015 page no. 789-794
ENDOCRINE SYSTEM

60. ENDOCRINE SYSTEM