Pituitary gland - Horizon Wellness Clinic

The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, protected within a bony cavity called the sella turcica. It plays a major role in regulating critical body functions and overall homeostasis. Key functions of the pituitary gland:

• Growth hormone (GH) - The pituitary gland produces growth hormone, which stimulates growth in children and maintains tissues and organs in adults.
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) - The pituitary gland produces TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.
• Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) - ACTH stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, which controls metabolism and the body's response to stress.
• Prolactin - Prolactin regulates breast milk production after pregnancy.
• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) - These hormones regulate ovulation and testosterone production.

The pituitary gland consists of two main parts:

• Anterior pituitary - Makes up ~80% of the gland. Produces hormones that directly target other organs like TSH, GH, ACTH.
• Posterior pituitary - Makes up ~20% of the gland. Stores and releases hormones oxytocin and vasopressin which stimulate uterine contractions and control fluid balance.

What regulates the pituitary gland? The anterior pituitary hormones are controlled by hormones made in the hypothalamus at the base of the brain. The hypothalamus detects when hormone levels need adjusting and sends signals to the anterior pituitary to secrete more or less of its hormones accordingly. This network creates a precisely regulated feedback system to maintain stability in the body. Pituitary gland disorders There are various disorders that can impact pituitary gland function:

• Pituitary tumors - Abnormal cell growth that presses on surrounding brain tissue.
• Hypopituitarism - Underproduction of pituitary hormones.
• Hyperpituitarism - Overproduction of growth hormone.
• Diabetes insipidus - Deficiency of vasopressin leading to abnormal urine output.

In summary, the pituitary gland is the master gland of the endocrine system, controlling critical processes related to growth, thyroid function, reproduction, lactation, and stress. Maintaining healthy pituitary gland function is essential for overall well-being. For more information, please visit Horizon Wellness Clinic.