Endocrine System

Question 1

What is the role of hormones in the body?

Answer 1

Hormones are chemical messengers employed by the body to carry signals to specific organs or systems, regulating bodily processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Question 2

What are the two types of glands in the endocrine system?

Answer 2

The two types of glands are exocrine glands, which export produced materials via a duct (like saliva and sweat glands), and endocrine glands, which are ductless and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Question 3

How do hormones reach their target cells?

Answer 3

Hormones are systemically circulated in the blood and reach their target cells, which have specific receptors that match the molecular shape of the hormones.

Question 4

What is the role of the hypothalamus in the endocrine system?

Answer 4

The hypothalamus, known as the master regulator, controls many glandular functions and releases hormones like Thyrotrophin, Corticotropin, Growth hormone-releasing hormone, Dopamine, and Gonadotrophin.

Question 5

What hormones are released by the pituitary gland?

Answer 5

The pituitary gland releases hormones including Adrenocorticotropic hormone, Follicle-stimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone, Growth hormone, Prolactin, Oxytocin, Thyroid-stimulating hormone, and Anti-diuretic hormone.

Question 6

What hormone does the pineal gland produce and what is its function?

Answer 6

The pineal gland produces melatonin, which regulates sleep patterns (circadian rhythms).

Question 7

What hormones are produced by the thyroid gland and what are their functions?

Answer 7

The thyroid gland produces Triiodothyronine (T3), Thyroxine (T4), and Calcitonin. T3 and T4 regulate the body’s metabolic rate, heart rate, digestion, and other functions, while Calcitonin helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the blood.

Question 8

What is the function of the parathyroid glands?

Answer 8

The parathyroid glands control calcium levels in the blood, influencing bone strength and density.

Question 9

What hormones are produced by the adrenal glands and their functions?

Answer 9

The adrenal cortex produces cortisol (regulates blood pressure and sugar levels) and aldosterone (regulates blood pressure). The adrenal medulla produces adrenaline and noradrenaline, hormones activated during stress to provide additional energy.

Question 10

How do hormones affect hair health?

Answer 10

Hormonal changes can affect hair health in various ways, such as hair thinning, loss, dryness, or greying. Hormones like estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can influence the hair growth cycle and hair characteristics.

Question 11

What is the impact of pregnancy hormones on hair?

Answer 11

During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone prolong the hair growth phase, making hair appear thicker. Post-partum, hormone levels normalise, resuming the usual hair cycle.

Question 12

How can stress hormones affect hair?

Answer 12

Stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can prolong the telogen phase of hair growth and suppress estrogen release, leading to hair loss.

Question 13

What is the effect of thyroid hormone imbalance on hair?

Answer 13

Imbalance in thyroid hormones, as seen in conditions like hypothyroidism, can lead to hair loss.

Question 14

What does the naming of hormones indicate?

Answer 14

The names of hormones often suggest their production site and function. For example, ‘thyrotropin’ indicates that it acts on the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones.

Question 15

How do hormones and hair health indicate hormonal imbalances?

Answer 15

Changes in hair condition, such as thinning, loss, or changes in texture, can be indicators of hormonal imbalances in the body.

Question 16

What specific investigations are used to identify hormonal imbalances?

Answer 16

Investigations for hormonal imbalances typically include blood tests to measure hormone levels, such as thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH), sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone), and stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline). Other tests might include scalp biopsies to examine hair follicles, and imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI for gland evaluation.

Question 17

What is the prognosis of hair loss due to thyroid hormone imbalances?

Answer 17

Hair loss caused by thyroid hormone imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, is usually reversible. Proper treatment of the thyroid disorder often leads to the restoration of normal hair growth, although this may take several months.

Question 18

How does the prognosis of hair loss differ in cases of androgenic alopecia due to hormonal imbalances?

Answer 18

In androgenic alopecia, which is often related to imbalances in androgens like testosterone, the prognosis varies. If detected early, treatments can slow down hair loss, but the condition is generally progressive. The effectiveness of treatment depends on factors like age, extent of loss, and response to therapy.

Question 19

What is the prognosis for hair loss due to menopause-related hormonal changes?

Answer 19

Hair loss due to menopause, characterized by a decrease in estrogen and progesterone, can be gradual and progressive. While complete reversal is challenging, treatments can help manage the condition and slow progression. Maintaining overall health and considering hormone replacement therapy might also help.

Question 20

How does stress-related hormonal imbalance affect the prognosis of hair loss?

Answer 20

Stress-induced hair loss, often linked to increased cortisol levels, typically has a good prognosis once the stressor is managed or removed. Hair growth usually resumes with stress reduction techniques and a healthy lifestyle. However, chronic stress might lead to more persistent hair issues.

Question 21

What investigations are recommended for diagnosing hair loss due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Answer 21

For PCOS-related hair loss, hormonal assays to check levels of androgens, insulin resistance tests, and ovarian ultrasound to detect cysts are recommended. PCOS hair loss treatment may include hormonal therapy and medications to reduce androgen effects.

Question 22

What is the prognosis of hair loss in postpartum hormonal changes?

Answer 22

Postpartum hair loss, caused by falling estrogen levels after childbirth, usually resolves on its own within a year after delivery. Maintaining a balanced diet and proper hair care can aid in the recovery process.

Question 22

What specific investigations are used to identify hormonal imbalances affecting hair health?

Answer 22

Investigations include blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH), sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone), and stress hormones (cortisol, adrenaline). Scalp biopsies may examine hair follicles, and imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI) can assess gland health.

Question 23

What is the prognosis of hair loss due to thyroid hormone imbalances?

Answer 23

Hair loss from thyroid hormone imbalances, such as in hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, is usually reversible with proper treatment of the thyroid condition, though hair regrowth may take several months.

Question 24

What is the prognosis for hair loss associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Answer 24

In PCOS-related hair loss, managing the underlying hormonal imbalance through lifestyle changes, medication, and possibly hormonal therapy can improve symptoms, including hair loss, though individual responses may vary.

Question 25

How does stress-related hormonal imbalance affect the prognosis of hair loss?

Answer 25

Stress-induced hair loss, often linked to elevated cortisol levels, typically has a good prognosis once the stressor is managed. Hair growth usually resumes with stress reduction, although chronic stress might lead to more persistent issues.

Question 26

What is the prognosis of hair loss in menopause-related hormonal changes?

Answer 26

Hair loss due to menopause, characterized by a decrease in estrogen and progesterone, can be gradual and progressive. While complete reversal is challenging, treatments can help manage the condition and slow progression.

Question 27

What specific investigations are recommended for diagnosing hair loss due to androgenic alopecia caused by hormonal imbalances?

Answer 27

For androgenic alopecia, investigations may include blood tests for androgen levels, scalp biopsies to examine hair follicle miniaturisation, and possibly imaging studies to assess for underlying conditions contributing to hormonal imbalances.

Question 28

What is the prognosis of hair loss due to androgenic alopecia from hormonal imbalances?

Answer 28

The prognosis for androgenic alopecia varies; early detection and treatment can slow hair loss, but the condition is often progressive. Effectiveness of treatment depends on factors such as age, extent of loss, and individual response to therapy.

Question 29

What is the prognosis for postpartum hair loss related to hormonal changes?

Answer 29

Postpartum hair loss, caused by a drop in pregnancy hormone levels, usually resolves on its own within a year after childbirth. Good nutrition and gentle hair care can support hair recovery.