Describe the anatomy of the thyroid gland?

H-shaped, highly vascular gland: Has two lateral lobes (left and right) approx. 4cm long and 2cm wide Isthmus bridging them approx. 3cm wide and 2cm high 50% of people have a pyramidal lobe arising from the superior isthmus directed upwards or to the left Located in...

Describe the microscopic structure of the thyroid gland?

Functional unit of the thyroid is the follicle: Outer sphere of cuboidal epithelial cells (thyrocytes) and thin basement membrane: Site of thyroglobulin production Filled with a protein rich core called colloid: Made up of thyroglobulin a large glycoprotein Serves as...

Which hormones or produced by the thyroid gland?

Hormone Thyroxine (T4) - carries 4 iodine atoms) Triiodothyronine (T3) - carries 3 iodine atoms) Reverse-triiodothyronine (r-T3) - formed by peripheral conversion of T3 Calcitonin Function Regulation of metabolism and growth Metabolically inactive Regulation of...

What are the effects of thyroid hormones (T3 & T4)?

Effects on Metabolism Increase basal metabolic rate of most tissues (Long duration of action):Increased heat productionIncreases cardiac metabolic rate:Ionotropic / chronotropic effectIncreased lipolysis & gluconeogenesis Effect on Beta Receptors Increases number...