What hormones are produced by the anterior pituitary gland?
The anterior pituitary gland produces six primary hormones: growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
What is the function of the anterior pituitary gland?
The anterior pituitary gland produces and secretes hormones that regulate several physiological processes, including growth (via growth hormone), thyroid function (via thyroid-stimulating hormone), adrenal function (via adrenocorticotropic hormone), reproductive functions (via luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone), and lactation (via prolactin).
What disorders are associated with the anterior pituitary gland?
Disorders associated with the anterior pituitary gland include pituitary adenomas (such as prolactinomas, ACTH-secreting tumors, and growth hormone-secreting tumors), hypopituitarism, Cushing's disease, and acromegaly. These conditions can disrupt hormone production, leading to various physiological effects depending on the hormones involved.
How can anterior pituitary gland function be tested?
Anterior pituitary gland function can be tested using blood tests to measure hormone levels such as ACTH, TSH, GH, LH, FSH, and prolactin. Stimulation and suppression tests, like the ACTH stimulation test or dexamethasone suppression test, may also be performed to evaluate the gland's response to regulatory feedback.
How is the anterior pituitary gland regulated?
The anterior pituitary gland is regulated primarily by the hypothalamus, which releases specific hormones that either stimulate or inhibit pituitary hormone secretion. This regulation occurs via the pituitary portal blood system. Additionally, feedback loops from target organs help modulate its activity, maintaining hormonal balance.