pituitary/adrenal/thyroid Flashcards
What is the primary role of the endocrine system?
Secretes hormones
The endocrine system is made up of glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream.
Define hormones.
Chemical produced by glands in the endocrine system.
What are ductless glands?
Glands that secrete chemical substances directly into the bloodstream.
What is the function of the hypothalamus-pituitary complex?
Acts as the command center of the endocrine system, regulating other glands
What is the pituitary gland often referred to as?
The master gland.
What are the two parts of the pituitary gland?
posterior & anterior
What is adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)?
A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the adrenal glands.
What are corticosteroids?
Steroid hormones important for stress , blood pressure, and inflammation.
What are the two main types of corticosteroids?
- Glucocorticoids
- Mineralocorticoids
What is the function of glucocorticoids?
Increase gluconeogenesis and reduce inflammation.
What is Addison’s disease?
Adrenal insufficiency characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and weight loss.
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
Hypersecretion of ACTH leading to symptoms like obesity and skin changes.
What are common conditions treated with glucocorticoids?
- Inflammatory diseases
- Immune system conditions
- Respiratory diseases
Fill in the blank: Prednisone is an example of a _______.
Corticosteroid
What should be monitored while on corticosteroid therapy?
- Weight
- Blood glucose levels
- Potassium levels
What are the adverse effects of corticosteroids?
- Fluid/electrolyte imbalances
- Increased blood glucose
- Muscle weakness
- Cushing’s syndrome
What is the role of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?
Maintains fluid and electrolyte balance and regulates blood volume.
What condition is associated with a deficiency of ADH?
Diabetes Insipidus
What are thyroid hormones (TH)?
- Thyroxine (T4)
- Triiodothyronine (T3)
What dietary component is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones?
Iodine
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
- Pale, puffy face
- Cold dry skin
- Decreased metabolism
- Lethargy
What is myxedema?
A severe form of hypothyroidism in adults causing swelling of tissues.
What is the primary treatment for hypothyroidism?
Lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
What is hyperthyroidism also known as?
Thyrotoxicosis
List some symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
- Rapid heartbeat
- Increased appetite
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
What are common treatments for hyperthyroidism?
- Antithyroid drugs
- Surgery
- Radiation
What are the side effects of thyroid-suppressing drugs?
- Rash
- Nausea
- Headache
What is the importance of monitoring liver function when administering thyroid-suppressing drugs?
To detect potential hepatotoxicity.
Fill in the blank: Levothyroxine sodium is an example of a _______.
Synthetic T4 thyroid replacement
