14.Endocrine PT1_study_guide

Endocrine System

A system of glands that produce and secrete hormones to regulate various bodily functions.

Hormones

Chemical messengers produced by endocrine organs and transported in body fluids to modulate the activity of target cells.

Pituitary Gland

Often called the 'master gland,' it controls the function of many other endocrine glands.

Growth Hormone (GH)

A hormone necessary for growth and contributes to the regulation of metabolism.

Prolactin

A hormone that stimulates milk production.

Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (MSH)

Hormone that increases the production of melanin by melanocytes.

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Stimulates the production and secretion of hormones from the adrenal cortex.

Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Stimulates the production and secretion of thyroid hormones.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Promotes follicle maturation and estrogen production in women; stimulates spermatogenesis in men.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Triggers ovulation and progesterone production in women; increases testosterone production in men.

Oxytocin

Hormone that causes uterine contractions and milk let-down.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone that promotes water retention in the kidneys.

Hypothalamus

Part of the CNS that produces hormones affecting the function of the pituitary gland.

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

Stimulates the release of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary.

Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH)

Stimulates the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary.

Somatostatin

Inhibits the release of growth hormone.

Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH)

Stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH)

Stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

Thymosin

A hormone that affects the immune system and directs the maturation of lymphocytes.

Thyroid Hormones

Includes triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which regulate metabolism.

Thyrocalcitonin

Hormone that decreases serum calcium levels, opposing parathyroid hormone.

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Regulates calcium levels in the blood.

Adrenal Glands

Glands that produce hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline.

Catecholamines

Hormones released from the adrenal medulla, including epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Pancreas

Produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin and glucagon.

Glucagon

Hormone that increases blood glucose levels.

Insulin

Hormone that lowers blood glucose levels.

Negative Feedback Mechanism

A process that reduces the output or activity of a system, maintaining homeostasis.

Hypofunction

A condition where a gland produces insufficient hormones.

Hyperfunction

A condition where a gland produces excessive hormones.

Primary Problems

Disorders originating in the gland responsible for hormone production.

Secondary Problems

Disorders where the regulatory mechanisms alter hormone production despite normal gland function.

Addison's Disease

A disorder characterized by hypofunction of the adrenal glands.

Cushing Syndrome

A disorder involving hyperfunction of the adrenal glands resulting in excess glucocorticoids.

Goiter

Enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Graves Disease

An autoimmune disorder resulting in hyperthyroidism.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

An autoimmune condition leading to hypothyroidism.

Pheochromocytoma

A tumor of the adrenal medulla that causes excess production of catecholamines.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

A genetic disorder affecting adrenal gland hormone production.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the nervous system that controls the 'fight or flight' response.

Mineralocorticoids

Hormones like aldosterone that regulate sodium and potassium levels.

Glucocorticoids

Hormones like cortisol involved in the stress response and metabolism.

Thyroid Function

Regulates metabolic rate, thermal regulation, and growth in children.

Feedback Mechanisms

Processes that monitor and adjust hormone levels in the body.

Interventions in Endocrine Disorders

Clinical actions taken to manage hormone imbalances or gland dysfunction.

Nursing Assessment in Endocrine Disorders

Observations and evaluations made to determine endocrine health.