Pituitary Gland
The pituitary gland is a small, pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. This gland secretes hormones that regulate many important body functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
The pituitary gland has two main parts, the anterior pituitary (or adenohypophysis) and the posterior pituitary (or neurohypophysis).
The anterior pituitary produces and secretes hormones that regulate growth, blood pressure, thyroid function, and reproductive function. The posterior pituitary produces and secretes hormones that regulate water balance and milk production.
Pituitary disorders can occur when the gland is not functioning properly or when there is a growth in the gland (pituitary adenoma).
Pituitary disorders can lead to problems with growth, blood pressure, metabolism, and reproduction. Treatment of pituitary disorders may involve medication, surgery, or radiation therapy.