PREHYPOPHYSIS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "prehypophysis" refers to a small glandular structure located in the brain, specifically the anterior part of the pituitary gland. This gland, also known as the adenohypophysis, is responsible for producing and releasing various hormones that play a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions.
The prehypophysis is situated within the brain's sella turcica, a bony structure at the base of the skull. It is composed of different types of cells that secrete hormones such as growth hormone (GH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin (PRL). These hormones are then released into the bloodstream to target specific organs or glands, controlling their growth, development, and function.
The prehypophysis is a key regulatory organ of the endocrine system, as it interacts with various other structures in the brain to maintain hormonal balance. It receives signals from the hypothalamus, a region in the brain, via a network of blood vessels known as the hypophyseal portal system. This communication allows the prehypophysis to respond to the body's needs and adjust hormone production accordingly.
Imbalances or malfunctions in the prehypophysis can lead to disruptions in hormone levels, resulting in a variety of health issues. These can include abnormal growth, infertility, menstrual irregularities, thyroid disorders, and disruptions in the functioning of other endocrine glands. Diagnosis and treatment of prehypophyseal disorders often involve hormone testing, imaging studies, and medication to restore hormonal balance.
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The anterior lobe, epithelial or glandular portion, of the hypophysis cerebri.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PREHYPOPHYSIS
- orehypophysis
- lrehypophysis
- -rehypophysis
- 0rehypophysis
- peehypophysis
- pdehypophysis
- pfehypophysis
- ptehypophysis
- p5ehypophysis
- p4ehypophysis
- prwhypophysis
- prshypophysis
- prdhypophysis
- prrhypophysis
- pr4hypophysis
- pr3hypophysis
- pregypophysis
- prebypophysis
- prenypophysis
- prejypophysis
Etymology of PREHYPOPHYSIS
The word prehypophysis is derived from two separate roots: pre- and hypophysis.
The prefix pre- originates from the Latin word prae, meaning before or in front of. In medical terminology, it often indicates something that comes before or is anterior to a particular structure.
The term hypophysis is a Greek word derived from hypo, meaning under or below, and physis, meaning growth or origin. In anatomy, hypophysis refers to the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.
Therefore, when combining the two roots, prehypophysis essentially means anterior to the pituitary gland or situated in front of the pituitary gland.
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