ENDOCRINE

Endocrine System

A network of glands that produce and secrete hormones, influencing almost every cell, organ, and function of the body to maintain homeostasis.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that secrete chemicals for elimination through ducts into the surface of the skin or a body cavity.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that lack ducts and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream to be carried to target tissues.

Hormones

Chemical messengers released into the bloodstream that regulate various bodily functions, acting slowly to achieve their effects.

Feedback Systems

Regulatory systems that maintain an optimal internal operating environment within the body, involving chemical, hormonal, and neural controls.

Hypothalamus

A small region of the brain that links the endocrine and nervous systems, regulating many essential body functions.

Pituitary Gland

Known as the 'master gland,' it controls the secretions of other endocrine glands and is located at the base of the brain.

Diabetes Mellitus

A metabolic disorder characterized by impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, leading to high blood glucose levels.

Hypoglycemia

Condition marked by abnormally low blood sugar levels, potentially leading to symptoms such as trembling, rapid heart rate, and confusion.

Hyperglycemia

Condition characterized by high blood glucose levels, commonly seen in diabetes mellitus.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis

A life-threatening condition resulting from severe insulin deficiency, leading to hyperglycemia, ketone production, and osmotic diuresis.

Adrenal Insufficiency

Underproduction of cortisol and aldosterone, resulting in weakness, dehydration, and failure to maintain blood pressure.

Cushing Syndrome

A condition resulting from excess cortisol, characterized by changes in metabolism and numerous physical signs like weight gain and skin changes.

Thyroid Hormones

Hormones secreted by the thyroid gland that regulate metabolism, energy production, and overall body growth and development.

Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions where the immune system produces antibodies against its own tissues, affecting various organs and systems.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

A chronic infectious disease caused by the HIV virus, leading to a weakened immune response and increased susceptibility to infections.

Myxedema Coma

A severe form of hypothyroidism characterized by inadequate thyroid hormone levels, leading to coma and life-threatening conditions.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone that helps regulate water balance in the body; deficiencies can lead to diabetes insipidus.

Insulin

Hormone secreted by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels, enabling cells to take up glucose.

Glucagon

Hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to convert glycogen into glucose.

Catecholamines

Hormones released by the adrenal medulla (such as epinephrine and norepinephrine) that prepare the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Gonads

Reproductive organs that produce sex hormones; testes produce androgens while ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone.

Thyrotoxicosis

Condition resulting from excessive levels of thyroid hormones in the body, often leading to metabolic disturbances.

Aldosterone

Hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the blood, primarily produced in the adrenal cortex.

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)

Hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete cortisol.

Exophthalmos

Protrusion of the eyes, commonly associated with hyperthyroidism due to increased tissue mass.

Hypersecretion

Excessive secretion of hormones, leading to overstimulation of target glands.

Hyposecretion

Insufficient secretion of hormones, leading to underactivity of the respective organ.

Polyuria

Excessive urination, often a symptom of diabetes.

Polydipsia

Excessive thirst; often a symptom associated with hyperglycemia.

Polyphagia

Excessive hunger; another symptom often found with uncontrolled diabetes.