Section 1 Flashcards
What are other systems that are impacted by the endocrine system?
-cardiovascular system
-reproductive system
-digestive system
What are the two types of glands that the body can secrete products from?
endocrine and exocrine glands
What are endocrine glands?
cells of these glands secrete hormones directly into the interstitial fluid surrounding the secretory cells. The hormones are then picked up by the blood capillaries
*secrete directly into the bloodstream to produce a variety of effects on the body
What are exocrine glands?
glands that secrete cell products into a duct system
What are hormones?
where are they released from?
-act as chemical messengers
-travel through the blood circulation to cause an effect on a target organ
-released from endocrine glands
Why may a doctor use exogenous hormones?
-induce chemical signalling that would otherwise not be present
-can be helpful for disease treatment, as well as prevention of pregnancy
What are exogenous hormones?
hormones not made within the body
What is the pituitary gland? Describe its structure and function.
-endocrine gland
-small gland (pea sized) at the base of the brain
-extends from hypothalamus
-known as “master gland” since its produces and releases hormones that control all other endocrine glands
What is the thyroid gland? Describe its structure and function.
-endocrine gland
-sits anterior to the trachea
-produces thyroid hormones important for metabolism
-involved in calcium homeostasis
What are the parathyroid glands? Describe its structure and function.
-endocrine gland
- 4 small oval glands
-on the back of the thyroid gland
-paired
-two superior and two inferior
-involved in the maintenance of calcium homeostasis
What are the adrenal glands? Describe its structure and function.
-endocrine gland
-paired (2)
-sits on top of each kidney
-also called: suprarenal glands
-important roles in the production of corticosteroids
-maintenance of fluid balance role
What are corticosteroids?
a group of steroid hormones produced by the cortex of the adrenal gland that are responsible for several functions such as: glucose metabolism, sex characteristics, and electrolyte balance of body fluids
What is the pancreas? Describe its structure and function.
-endocrine and exocrine gland
- located posterior to the stomach extending from the duodenum (first part of the small intestine) to the spleen
-main endocrine function: control sugar levels in the blood
