The pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain, behind the bridge of the nose. It is about one-half inch (1.25 cm) in diameter. The pituitary gland rests within a hollowed out area of the sphenoid bone called the sella turcica. The pituitary gland is referred to as the “master gland” because it monitors and regulates many bodily functions through the hormones that it produces, including: The pituitary gland is connected by a stalk to a part of the
brain called the hypothalamus. Together, the brain and pituitary gland form the neuroendocrine system. This system constantly monitors glands and organs to determine whether to send or to stop the chemical messengers (hormones) that control their functions. Learn more about the Barrow Pituitary Center – what we treat, treatments/procedures and to find a Pituitary specialist. Anatomy of the Pituitary GlandThe pituitary has two lobes, the anterior and the posterior lobe. Each of the two lobes of the pituitary gland contains different types of cells and produces different types of hormones. The anterior lobe makes up about 80% of the pituitary gland. It regulates growth, metabolism, and reproduction through the hormones that it produces. The production of these hormones is either stimulated or inhibited by chemical messages sent from the hypothalamus to the pituitary.
The posterior lobe produces two hormones, vasopressin and oxytocin. These hormones are released when the hypothalamus sends messages to the pituitary gland through nerve cells.
Pituitary Gland VideosWhere is the pituitary gland located? What does it do? Removal of Pituitary Adenoma Leaving Tumor Pseudocapsule Intact Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery Explained Where is the pituitary gland located? What does it do?Removal of Pituitary Adenoma Leaving Tumor Pseudocapsule IntactEndoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery ExplainedWhat is the role of the pituitary gland in the endocrine system?The pituitary gland is referred to as the “master gland” because it monitors and regulates many bodily functions through the hormones that it produces, including: Growth and sexual/reproductive development and function. Glands (thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and gonads)
What hormones does the pituitary gland produce?Hormones produced by the pituitary gland. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH). Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Luteinising hormone (LH). Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Prolactin (PRL). Growth hormone (GH). Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). |