Endocrine

Endocrine System

Maintains internal homeostasis and integrates responses to the external environment.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts, acting as chemical messengers.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that secrete substances through ducts.

Hypothalamus

The master gland that maintains homeostasis and controls the pituitary gland.

Releasing Hormones

Hormones that turn hormone production ON in target glands.

Inhibiting Factors

Substances that shut hormone production OFF to prevent excessive hormone levels.

Negative Feedback

A regulatory mechanism where an increase in hormone levels leads to a decrease in hormone production.

HPA Axis

The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis; regulates cortisol release in response to stress.

Cushing Syndrome

A condition of excess cortisol that can cause moon face, buffalo hump, and hypertension.

Addison Disease

A condition characterized by insufficient cortisol production, leading to fatigue and weight loss.

Metabolism Regulation

One of the primary functions of hormones, affecting growth and development, tissue function, and more.

Thyroid Hormone

Includes T3 and T4, crucial for regulating metabolism.

Hypothyroidism

Underactive thyroid resulting in low T3/T4 and slow metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism

Overactive thyroid leading to high T3/T4 and fast metabolism.

Diabetes Mellitus

A disorder marked by hyperglycemia due to lack of insulin or insulin resistance.

Insulin

Hormone that lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating glucose transport into cells.

Glucagon

Hormone that raises blood glucose levels by breaking down glycogen in the liver.

Type 1 Diabetes

An autoimmune condition leading to little or no insulin production requiring lifelong insulin therapy.

Type 2 Diabetes

A condition where insulin is produced but not effectively used due to resistance.

Sulfonylureas

Oral medications that stimulate insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.

Metformin

First-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes; it decreases liver glucose production and increases insulin sensitivity.

GLP-1 Agonists

Medications that mimic GLP-1, enhancing insulin secretion and reducing appetite.

DPP-4 Inhibitors

Drugs that prevent the breakdown of GLP-1, prolonging its effects on insulin release.

Levothyroxine

Synthetic thyroid hormone used in the treatment of hypothyroidism.

ADH (Vasopressin)

Hormone released by the posterior pituitary that retains water and sodium in the body.

Oxytocin

Hormone involved in uterine contractions and milk let-down.

Diabetes Insipidus

Condition caused by ADH deficiency, resulting in excessive urination and dehydration.

Peak Cortisol Levels

Typically occur between 6–9 AM.

Dawn Phenomenon

An increase in blood sugar in the early morning due to hormonal changes.

Somogyi Phenomenon

Rebound hyperglycemia occurring after a hypoglycemic episode.