Endocrine system
Pituitary Gland
The pituitary is a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain often called the "master gland" because it controls many other hormone glands, including the thyroid, adrenals and reproductive organs.
What it is
The pituitary is a tiny gland hanging from the base of the brain, in a bony hollow behind the eyes.
Where it is
At the base of the brain, in a small pocket of the skull behind the nose and eyes.
What it does
Releases hormones that control growth, metabolism, the stress response, reproduction, and the balance of water in the body — often by directing other glands.
How it works
Guided by the brain's hypothalamus, the pituitary releases hormones into the blood. Some act on the body directly (such as growth hormone); others tell glands like the thyroid, adrenals and ovaries or testes to release their own hormones.
When things go wrong
Common conditions affecting the pituitary gland
- Pituitary tumours (usually non-cancerous)
- Over- or under-production of pituitary hormones
- Acromegaly (too much growth hormone)
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms and is not a diagnosis. Sudden severe symptoms — such as severe chest pain, breathlessness or collapse — are an emergency; call 999.
Looking after it
Keeping your pituitary gland healthy
Pituitary conditions are specialist-managed; symptoms like unexplained changes in growth, periods, energy or vision are assessed with blood tests and scans.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
Despite being only the size of a pea, the pituitary influences nearly every other hormone gland in the body.
Answers
Pituitary Gland: frequently asked questions
Why is the pituitary called the master gland?
Because it releases hormones that control many other glands — including the thyroid, adrenal glands and reproductive organs — coordinating much of the body's hormone system.
The endocrine system
Related organs
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students
- TeachMeAnatomy / TeachMePhysiology
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