Anatomy of the Endocrine glands

Question 1

Briefly explain where the hypothalamus is located

Answer 1

It is found in the center of the brain.
It is symmetrical with the left and right halves.
Located in the diencephalon.
It lies inferior to the thalamus but superior to the brainstem.

Question 2

Name two functions of the hypothalamus

Answer 2

Regulates autonomic functions.
Hormonal regulation.

Question 3

What are the anterior relations of the hypothalamus(3)

Answer 3

Lamina terminalis
Optic chiasm
Anterior commissure

Question 4

What is the posterior relation of the hypothalamus?

Answer 4

Mammillary bodies

Question 5

What are the inferior relations of the hypothalamus?(4)

Answer 5

Mammillary bodies
Tuber cinereum
Tegmentum of the brain
Infundibulum/pituitary stalk

Question 6

What is the superior relation of the hypothalamus?

Answer 6

Hypothalamic sulcus

Question 7

Name 4 main nuclei of the hypothalamus as well as their subnuclei(8)

Answer 7

1. Preoptic nucleus: lateral preoptic area
   Medial preoptic area
2. Supraoptic: Paraventricular nucleus, anterior hypothalamic nucleus, supraoptic nucleus and suprachiasmatic nucleus.
3. Tuberal: Dorsomedial, ventromedial and arcuate nuclei
4. Mammillary: Posterior hypothalamic nucleus, mammillary bodies.

Question 8

What is the location of the hypophysis?

Answer 8

At the base of the brain, in the sella turcica.

Question 9

What are the relations of the hypophysis(4)

Answer 9

Anterior: Sphenoid sinus
Posterior: Basilar artery and pons
Superior: Optic chiasm and diaphragma sellae
Inferior: sphenoid sinus
Lateral: carvenous sinus

Question 10

Which hormone is secreted by the pineal gland and what role does it play in the body?

Answer 10

Melatonin, it regulates the circadian rhythm of the body.

Question 11

What are the relations of the pineal glands?

Answer 11

Posterior- Habenula and posterior commissure.
Inferior-Two superior colliculus.
Superior- Splenium of the corpus callosum.