CQRG Spring/2024 Medical Terminology Bootcamp
SESSION 13 / ENDOCRINE SYSTEM OVERVIEW
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Introduction to the Endocrine System
Endocrine system hormones play a crucial role in the regulation of essential body functions.
The endocrine system consists of glands and organs that produce hormones and secrete them into the bloodstream, allowing them to reach various tissues and organs throughout the body. These hormones are key to the regulation of human growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
Key term: endocrine
pertaining to internal secretion;
function to regulate internal mechanisms
Major Functions of the Endocrine System
The endocrine system is a sophisticated communication network.
The endocrine system is a powerful communication system. It uses hormones to regulate the activities of various organs through the circulatory system. In humans, the hypothalamus serves as the central control center for endocrine activities. It secretes hormones that stimulate or suppress the release of hormones in the pituitary gland, in addition to controlling appetite, blood pressure, sleep, temperature, and water balance.
Key term: hormone
type of chemical “messenger;”
function to regulate internal mechanisms
Key term: hypothalamus
gland located in the brain;
regulates endocrine system
Key term: pituitary gland
also known as the hypophysis;
produces hormones that control many processes in the body
The pituitary gland is a small gland located underneath the brain. It has two main lobes, the anterior pituitary gland and the posterior pituitary gland (joined by the pars intermedia). The pituitary is attached to the hypothalamus, which controls its activity.
Major Endocrine System Components
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.
Pineal body - produces the hormone melatonin.
Pituitary - gland controls many functions of the other glands.
Thyroid and parathyroid - the thyroid plays an important role in metabolism. The parathyroid glands regulate the body's calcium balance.
Thymus - factor in the production of white blood cells to fight infection.
Adrenal gland - makes and releases corticosteroid hormones and epinephrine to maintain the blood pressure and regulate metabolism.
Pancreas - aids in digestion, as well as hormone production. Hormones including insulin and glucagon, regulate blood sugar levels.
Ovaries - produces estrogen and progesterone.
Testes - produce testosterone.
Helpful Video:
Recommended Reading (Optional)
Textbook
Medical Terminology for Healthcare Professions, Katherine Greene and Andrea Nelson
endocrine (adj.)
from Latinized Greek terms;
“Endocrine” as a medical term arises from “endon,” referring to “within” and “krinein” meaning “to separate, or distinguish.”
Images via Getty Stock. (Vintage anatomy sketches).
The pancreas functions as an organ of both the digestive and endocrine systems. In humans, the pancreas is located in the abdomen behind the stomach.