The pituitary gland is roughly the size of a pea, 1 cm in diameter, weighing only 0.5 grams. Despite its size and weight, it has the distinction of being known as the master endocrine organ, regulating the release of hormones from target organs that control growth, development, metabolism, fertility, hydration, stress, and mood, in addition to other roles. By integrating chemical signals from the brain with the feedback from circulating hormones produced by the target organs, the pituitary gland can maintain a well-orchestrated balance between the stimulation and suppression of vital functions within cells and tissues.
This course will detail the relationship between the pituitary gland and its target organs, summarize its many regulatory roles, and will explore some of the more common disorders of the pituitary and how the laboratory plays a vital role in helping physicians diagnose and manage these conditions.
