Describe the basic structure of the pituitary gland.
Describe the basic structure of the pituitary gland.
The pituitary gland can be described as a small endocrine gland that plays a major role in regulating body functions. This gland is also referred to as the master gland because it controls all hormone-secreting glands. If the pituitary does not function properly, it can affect our brains, vision, reproductive, growth, and other effects.
The gland is an oval-shaped pea-sized gland suspended from the brain's underside by the pituitary stalk known as the infundibulum. It is situated under a small depression in the sphenoid bone called sella turcica. The superior surface of the gland is covered by the dura meter- the diaphragm sellae .it has a single opening that allows the passage of the infundibulum.it contains -
- The anterior lobe- derived from a Rathke's pouch and composed of glandular epithelium, secretes hormones.
- The posterior lobe- consists of nervous tissues and arises from the forebrain and extension of the hypothalamus.
- Superiorly it contains diaphragm sellae.
- Inferiorly or sphenoid sinus
- laterally, it contains cavernous sinus.
All the above parts are well located in the pituitary gland, which clearly defines its anatomical structures.
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