Anatomy Of The Thyroid Gland And Functions In The Endocrine System
The thyroid gland is situated on the front part of the neck
. Upon palpation, the thyroid gland will feel rubbery to the hands of the examiner. The thyroid gland is made up of follicular and parafollicular cells which secrete various hormones needed by the body to maintain normal function.
The Functions of the Thyroid Gland in the Endocrine System
o T3 and T4 Function
T4, also known as Thyroxine, is responsible for the regulation of oxygen consumption of the cells in the body. T4 is necessary to maintain normal metabolic rate in the body.
T3 or Triiodothyronine, offers the same function as T4. Both are needed by the body so protein consumption by the cells will remain at a normal rate.
o Calcitonin
The parafollicular cells in the body emit calcitonin. It is responsible for the regulation of calcium minerals found in the body. Calcitonin stimulates the transfer of calcium into the bones.
Iodine is needed to produce thyroxine. The latter is responsible for normal metabolism in the body. The absence of iodine will also mean deficiency in the secretion of some Thyroid hormones. It can affect growth in children and may even play a role in mental retardation. In adults, the deficiency of the Iodine substance may mean lesser metabolism in the body.
When there is a deficiency in any of the normal levels in the body, various diseases could be the resultant factor.
In the thyroid gland, a deficiency or excess in the hormones may lead to hypo or hyper conditions. About 2% to 20% of the population is affected with disorders of the thyroid gland.