Our endocrine glands produce hormones, which are like the body’s messengers-they move through bloodstream until they reach their target organ, and then deliver instructions telling that organ exactly how to behave. These “messages” trigger important processes, metabolism, growth, reproduction even mood. Occasionally, in one of glands, a change DNA (known as mutation) causes abnormal cells grow,...

The nervous system and the endocrine system are closely interrelated and both involved intimately in maintaining homeostasis. Endocrine dysfunctions may lead to various neurologic manifestations such as headache, myopathy, and acute encephalopathy including coma. It is important to recognize the neurologic signs and symptoms caused by the endocrine disorders while managing endocrine disorders. ...

THE PITUITARY GLAND This is a small, bean-shaped structure that lies at the base of the brain within the confines of the sella turcica. It is connected to the hypothalamus by a "stalk," composed of axons extending from the hypothalamus. The pituitary is composed of two morphologically and functionally distinct components: the anterior lobe (adenohypophysis) and the posterior lobe (neurohypophys...

The special field of endocrinology deals with the hormonal system. This includes, among other things, the function of hormones, the anatomy and physiology of endocrine glands and the feedback mechanisms of hormone regulation. This article explains the physiology of the endocrine system and provides graphical illustrations. The physiology of the endocrine system is a vast field that plays a role...

The endocrine system may be the target of different types of trauma with varied consequences. The present article discusses trauma of the hypothalamic-pituitary axes, adrenal glands, gonads, and pancreas. In addition to changes in circulating hormone levels due to direct injury to these structures, there may be an endocrine response in the context of the stress caused by the trauma.

The vitamin D endocrine system comprises a group of 7-dehydrocholesterol-derived secosteroid molecules, including its active metabolite 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D (1,25(OH)(2)D), its precursors and other metabolites, its binding protein (DBP) and nuclear receptor (VDR), as well as cytochrome P450 complex enzymes participating in activation and inactivation pathways of those molecules. The biologi...