Endocrine system

Function of endocrine system

to produce hormones that work together to maintain homeostasis, which is the process through which the body maintains a constant internal environment..

hormones

hormones are chemical messengers that are secreted by endocrine glands directly into the blood stream

location and function of pituitary gland

located at the base of the brain and regulates various physiological processes, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction by releasing hormones that control other endocrine glands.

Location & function of pineal gland

located deep within the brain and is responsible for producing melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and seasonal biological rhythms.

location & function of thyroid gland

located in the front of the neck and regulates metabolism, energy production, and calcium levels by secreting hormones such as thyroxine and calcitonin.

calcitonin function

helps lower blood calcium levels by inhibiting osteoclast activity in bones and increasing calcium excretion in the kidneys.

T3 and T4 function

These hormones regulate metabolism, growth, and energy levels in the body.

Location & functions of the parathyroid gland

located behind the thyroid gland, it regulates calcium levels in the blood by secreting parathyroid hormone (PTH).

location & function of the thymus

Located in the upper chest, the thymus is responsible for the development and maturation of T lymphocytes, crucial for the immune response.

thymosin function

a hormone produced by the thymus that stimulates the development of T cells, enhancing the immune system.

location & function of the pancreatic islets

clusters of cells in the pancreas that produce hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels.

what system do the pancreatic islet perform in?

The endocrine system, regulating blood sugar.

insulin function

a hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.

location & function of the adrenal system (nervous System interaction)

located on top of the kidneys, produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, playing a crucial role in the body's stress response and regulating metabolism.

what are electrolytes & what are their function

Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge, essential for various bodily functions such as maintaining fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling.

what are corticosteroids & what are their function

a class of steroid hormones produced by the adrenal cortex that help regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions in the body.

what are epinephrine & what is its function

a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that increases heart rate, muscle strength, blood pressure, and sugar metabolism during the body's fight-or-flight response.

what is norepinephrine & what is its function

a hormone and neurotransmitter produced by the adrenal glands that plays a critical role in the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing alertness, arousal, and blood pressure.

location and function of the gonads

the reproductive organs located in the pelvis for males (testes) and females (ovaries). They are responsible for producing gametes (sperm and eggs) and secreting sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen.

female hormones

estrogen and progesterone produced by the ovaries, which regulate the female reproductive system, menstrual cycle, and pregnancy.

estrogen function

regulates the female reproductive system, menstrual cycle, and plays a key role in pregnancy and development of female secondary sexual characteristics.

testosterone function

regulates male reproductive functions, promotes development of male secondary sexual characteristics, and supports sperm production.

what is an endocrinologist

A medical specialist who diagnoses and treats hormone-related disorders and diseases affecting the endocrine system.

what is the difference in acromegaly & gigantism

Acromegaly: excess growth hormone in adulthood, leading to enlarged bones and tissues. Gigantism: excess growth hormone in childhood, resulting in excessive growth and height.

hashimoto’s disease

An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.

Grave’s disease

An autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, characterized by an overactive thyroid and often associated with symptoms like weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and increased appetite.

Define diabetes mellitus

A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to either insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production.

thyroid storm

A severe, life-threatening condition caused by a sudden surge of thyroid hormones.

hypercalcemia

elevated levels of calcium in the blood, which can cause various symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and muscle weakness.

effects of abnormal blood sugar levels

can lead to symptoms including increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and complications affecting various organs.

what is the difference In type 1 and type 2 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, while type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and often associated with obesity.

gestational diabetes

a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, characterized by high blood sugar levels.

the difference in diabetic coma & insulin shock

A diabetic coma is a severe state of unconsciousness resulting from extremely high blood sugar levels, while insulin shock occurs due to excessively low blood sugar levels, often caused by too much insulin or inadequate food intake.

what are complications that can occur from diabetes

Complications can include cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, and foot complications.

difference in the hemoglobin A1c and fructosamine tests

The hemoglobin A1c test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, while the fructosamine test indicates levels over the previous two to three weeks.

What is the Cushing’s syndrome

a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, often due to adrenal tumors or pituitary gland abnormalities. Symptoms include weight gain, thinning skin, and high blood pressure.

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