Textbook Question
Describe the components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis, and explain how it regulates secretion from the adrenal gland.
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16. The Endocrine System
The Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland
1:37 minutesProblem 25
Textbook Question
Kyle, a 5-year-old boy, has been growing by leaps and bounds; his height is 100% above normal for his age. He has been complaining of headaches and vision problems. A CT scan reveals a large pituitary tumor.
(a) Which hormone is being secreted in excess?
(b) What condition will Kyle exhibit if corrective measures are not taken?
(c) What is the probable cause of his headaches and visual problems?
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that is responsible for growth. The anterior pituitary secretes growth hormone (GH), which stimulates growth in bones and tissues. Given Kyle's excessive height, it is likely that GH is being secreted in excess.
Understand the condition caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone in children. When GH is overproduced before the closure of the epiphyseal growth plates (as in children), it leads to a condition called gigantism, characterized by abnormal growth in height and size.
Analyze the anatomical location of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain, near the optic chiasm, where the optic nerves cross. A tumor in this area can exert pressure on surrounding structures.
Explain the probable cause of Kyle's headaches and vision problems. The pituitary tumor is likely compressing nearby structures, such as the optic chiasm, leading to visual disturbances (e.g., loss of peripheral vision). Additionally, the tumor's growth can increase intracranial pressure, causing headaches.
Summarize the importance of corrective measures. If the tumor is not treated, Kyle's condition could worsen, leading to further complications such as continued abnormal growth, worsening vision problems, and potentially life-threatening effects due to the tumor's pressure on critical brain structures.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Growth Hormone (GH)
Growth Hormone (GH) is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans. In children, excess GH can lead to abnormal growth patterns, such as gigantism, characterized by excessive height and size due to the overproduction of this hormone before the growth plates close.
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Gigantism
Gigantism is a condition resulting from excessive secretion of growth hormone during childhood, leading to abnormal growth and height. If left untreated, it can cause various health issues, including joint problems, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders, due to the strain on the body from excessive growth.
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Pituitary Tumor
A pituitary tumor is an abnormal growth in the pituitary gland that can disrupt hormone production. Such tumors can lead to symptoms like headaches and vision problems due to pressure on surrounding structures, including the optic nerves, which can result in visual disturbances and pain.
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