Medical Assistant Prep / Unit 3 MAS 070 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
The Major Endocrine Glands
The idea
Several endocrine glands release hormones that regulate the whole body.
In practice
First, the pituitary gland, linked to the hypothalamus, releases hormones that direct other glands, along with growth hormone and a hormone that conserves water in the kidneys. Second, the thyroid gland in the neck releases thyroid hormone, which needs iodine; the small parathyroid glands behind it regulate blood calcium. Third, the adrenal glands above the kidneys release cortisol, which raises blood glucose, and epinephrine during stress. Fourth, the pancreas contains islets that release insulin and glucagon. Fifth, the testes and ovaries release sex hormones.
Where people slip
Because every gland feeds back on others, a problem in one can show up as symptoms that seem to belong to another system, which is why the provider asks broad questions.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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