Endocrine glands gonads

Location of major endocrine glands in humans. The hypothalamus regulates the anterior pituitary, which regulates the hormonal secretions of the thyroid, adrenals, and gonads (ovary in the female and testis in the male). 

Endocrine glands are ductless glands that include the pituitary (hypophysis), thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, gonads, and pancreas. Table 21-1 lists endocrine glands, their location, and the hormone(s) secreted by the gland. 

The chemical assay of urinary 17-ketosteroids has become a widely used tool for the evaluation of gonadal function and some phases of adrenal cortical and pituitary function, as well as more obscure aspects of endocrine imbalance. Its principal value lies in the fact that gross hyper-and hypofunction of these endocrine glands may be detected rather readily. In addition, the assay may be used as a guide in adjusting dose levels of those steroids which give rise to 17-ketosteroids in the urine, as well as agents such as ACTH which exert a more indirect effect upon ketosteroid excretion. 

Conner, M. H. and Shaffner, C.S. Effect of Altered Thyroidal and Gonadal Activity on Size of Endocrine Glands and Resistance to Stress in the Chick ... 

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