Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

16. The Endocrine System

The Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland

Anatomy & Physiology

16. The Endocrine System

The Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland

Previous problemNext problem

Problem L2.3

Textbook Question

A patient has a brain tumor that necessitates removal of his pituitary gland. Will its removal affect production of ADH and oxytocin? Explain.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of the pituitary gland: The pituitary gland is divided into two parts—the anterior pituitary and the posterior pituitary. The posterior pituitary stores and releases two hormones: antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin, which are produced by the hypothalamus.

Recognize the connection between the hypothalamus and the posterior pituitary: ADH and oxytocin are synthesized in the hypothalamus and transported to the posterior pituitary for storage and release. The removal of the pituitary gland would eliminate the storage and release site for these hormones.

Consider the impact of pituitary removal: Without the posterior pituitary, the hypothalamus can no longer release ADH and oxytocin into the bloodstream, which would disrupt their normal physiological functions.

Explain the physiological consequences: The absence of ADH would impair water reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to excessive urination and dehydration (a condition known as diabetes insipidus). The absence of oxytocin would affect uterine contractions during childbirth and milk ejection during breastfeeding.

Conclude the explanation: Removal of the pituitary gland directly affects the production and release of ADH and oxytocin because the posterior pituitary is essential for their storage and secretion, even though they are synthesized in the hypothalamus.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above

Play a video:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Pituitary Gland Function

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the 'master gland,' regulates various hormonal functions in the body. It produces and secretes hormones that control other glands, including the adrenal glands, thyroid, and reproductive glands. The anterior pituitary produces hormones like ACTH and TSH, while the posterior pituitary stores and releases ADH and oxytocin, which are crucial for water balance and childbirth, respectively.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, is produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary. It plays a vital role in regulating the body's water balance by promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys. A decrease in ADH levels can lead to conditions such as diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive urination and thirst.

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. It is primarily known for its role in childbirth, stimulating uterine contractions, and facilitating milk ejection during breastfeeding. Additionally, oxytocin is involved in social bonding and emotional responses, making it significant in both physiological and psychological contexts.

Watch next

Master Hypothalamus & Pituitary Gland with a bite sized video explanation from Bruce Bryan

Start learning

Related Videos

Related Practice

Textbook Question

Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Thyroid hormones are produced by follicle cells.

532

views

Textbook Question

The outer part of the adrenal gland is the______, which secretes______. The inner part of the adrenal gland is the_____, which secretes ______.

419

views

Textbook Question

Describe the components of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis, and explain how it regulates secretion from the adrenal gland.

486

views

Textbook Question

Which of the following statements about the adrenal medulla is false?

a. Secretion from the adrenal medulla is triggered by ACTH and the sympathetic nervous system.

b. The adrenal medulla consists of glandular epithelial cells.

c. The adrenal medulla is a modified postsynaptic sympathetic ganglion.

d. The products of the adrenal medulla prolong the effects of the sympathetic response.

350

views

Textbook Question

Ms. Reczkiewicz has her thyroid gland removed to treat hyperthyroidism. Her condition is stable after surgery, but one day later she develops symptoms of severe hypocalcemia. What has happened? How would you correct this problem?

348

views

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?

333

views

Textbook Question

The posterior pituitary is not really an endocrine gland. Why not? What is it?

412

views

Textbook Question

The anterior pituitary is often referred to as the master endocrine organ, but it, too, has a 'master.' What controls the release of anterior pituitary hormones?

358

views

Show more practices

Download the Mobile app

Privacy

Do not sell my personal information

Accessibility

Patent notice

Sitemap