The endocrine system: anatomy and physiology

Question 1

What is the endocrine system?

Answer 1

. The endocrine system is a complex message and control system that integrates many body functions.

Question 2

How does endocrine glands release hormones into the bloodstream?

Answer 2

Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

1. Each endocrine gland produces one or more hormones.
2. Each hormone has a specific effect on some organ, tissue, or process.

Question 3

How does the brain control the release of hormones?

Answer 3

. This tightly controlled communication system uses primary and secondary feedback loops to keep the body in balance.
D. Excesses or deficiencies in hormones can cause disease processes, such as diabetes.

Question 4

What is urinary system?

Answer 4

A. The urinary system controls the discharge of certain waste materials filtered from the blood by the kidneys.
B. Functions of the urinary system:
	1. Control fluid balance in the body
	2. Filter and eliminate wastes
	3. Control pH balance

Question 5

What is the urinary bladder?

Answer 5

. The urinary bladder is located immediately behind the pubic symphysis in the pelvic cavity and empties to the outside of the body through the urethra.

Question 6

What are the kidneys?

Answer 6

. The kidneys are two solid organs that lie in the retroperitoneal space.

1. Rid the blood of toxic waste products and control the balance of water and salt
2. A ureter passes from each kidney and drains into the urinary bladder.

Question 7

What is the genital system?

Answer 7

The genital system controls the reproductive processes by which life is created.
B. The male reproductive system consists of the testicles, epididymis, vasa deferentia, prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and penis.
1. Lies outside the pelvic cavity (except for the prostate gland and seminal vesicles)

Question 8

What is the female reproductive system?

Answer 8

The female reproductive system consists of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and vagina.
1. Contained entirely within the pelvic cavity (except the clitoris and labia)