Parathyroid gland
Parathyroid Gland
The Parathyroid Gland (pronunciation: /ˌpærəˈθaɪrɔɪd ˈɡlænd/) is a small endocrine gland in the neck of humans and other tetrapods that produces parathyroid hormone. Humans usually have four parathyroid glands, which are usually located on the back of the thyroid gland, or, in rare cases, within the thyroid gland itself or in the chest.
Etymology
The term "parathyroid" was coined in the 19th century, and it comes from the Greek words para, meaning "beside", and thyreos, denoting "shield", and eidos, meaning "form, shape". The glands are so named because they are adjacent to the thyroid gland.
Function
The main role of the parathyroid glands is to regulate the body's calcium and phosphate levels. It does this by secreting parathyroid hormone (PTH), which is a key player in the regulation of the body's calcium homeostasis. PTH increases blood calcium levels by stimulating the release of calcium from the large reservoir contained in the bones. In addition, PTH increases gastrointestinal calcium absorption by activating vitamin D, and promotes renal tubular reabsorption of calcium, thereby increasing calcium levels in the bloodstream.
Related Terms
- Hyperparathyroidism: Overactivity of the parathyroid glands resulting in excess production of parathyroid hormone (PTH).
- Hypoparathyroidism: Underactivity of the parathyroid glands, leading to a deficiency of PTH, which causes low blood calcium levels.
- Parathyroidectomy: The surgical removal of one or more of the parathyroid glands.
- Parathyroid adenoma: A benign tumor of the parathyroid gland that can cause hyperparathyroidism.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parathyroid gland
- Wikipedia's article - Parathyroid gland
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