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Introduction to Endocrinology

Simply put, endocrinology is the study of endocrine glands. Endocrine glands are a group of  glands in the body which secrete hormones. The purpose of the secreted hormones is to evoke a specific response in other cells of the body which are located far away. As shown in the picture, the hormones are secreted into the blood stream giving them access to all other cells of the body.

Examples of Endocrine Glands and Their Hormones

• Thyroid Gland. Located in the front of the neck. Secretes thyroid hormone.
  Purpose: Regulate the body's overall metabolism.
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• Parathyroid Glands. There are 4 parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid. Secretes parathyroid hormone. parathyroid, parathyroid surgery, parathyroid hormone
  Purpose: Absolute control over calcium levels throughout the body.
  
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• Adrenal Glands. There are 2 adrenal glands located on the top of each kidney. Inner part secretes adrenaline, outer part secretes aldosterone and cortisol.
  Purpose: Maintain salt levels in the blood, maintain blood pressure, help control kidney function, control overall fluid concentrations in the body.
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• Neuroendocrine Glands of the Pancreas. Located deep in the abdomen behind the stomach, the pancreas is primarily a digestive organ. It also contains extremely important endocrine cells which secrete: insulin, glucagon, somatostatin, and others.
  Purpose: Control blood sugar and overall glucose metabolism, help control other endocrine cells of the digestive tract. parathyroid, parathyroid surgery, parathyroid hormone