Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
09:48
Development of Organoids from Mouse Pituitary as In Vitro Model to Explore Pituitary Stem Cell Biology
Published on: February 25, 2022
3.9K
The ectopic posterior pituitary gland
Nasreen Mahomed1, Thapelo Motshudi
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa. nasreen.mahomed@wits.ac.za.
South African Journal of Surgery. Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Chirurgie
|November 12, 2013
Summary
An ectopic posterior pituitary gland is a rare developmental anomaly. This condition can lead to short stature due to growth hormone deficiency, with characteristic imaging findings.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Radiology
Background:
- Ectopic posterior pituitary gland is a rare congenital anomaly.
- It is often associated with an empty pituitary fossa, hypoplastic or absent infundibular stalk.
- This can result in endocrine dysfunction, particularly growth hormone deficiency leading to short stature.
Observation:
- We present a case of ectopic posterior pituitary gland.
- The ectopic lobe was located along the median eminence in the floor of the third ventricle.
- Associated findings included an empty pituitary fossa and absent infundibular stalk.
Findings:
- The ectopic posterior pituitary gland can present with varied anatomical locations.
- Diagnostic imaging, including MRI, is crucial for identifying the ectopic gland and associated pituitary anomalies.
- Growth hormone deficiency is a common consequence, impacting linear growth.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and management of ectopic posterior pituitary gland are essential for addressing growth failure.
- Understanding the imaging features aids in differentiating this condition from other pituitary abnormalities.
- Further research into the embryological basis and long-term outcomes is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:17The Pituitary Gland
13.0K
The pituitary is a small endocrine organ in the sphenoid bone under the hypothalamus. Primarily, the pituitary in adults has two distinct anatomical and functional regions— the anterior and posterior lobes. During human fetal development, a third pituitary gland region called the pars intermedia atrophies and disappears. However, some of its cells migrate and exist adjacent to the anterior pituitary in adults.
13.0K
01:27Hormones of the Pituitary Gland
14.2K
The small, pea-sized pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. It is crucial in regulating various bodily functions, from growth to reproduction. The gland is divided into the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. The secretory cell clusters in the pars distalis of the anterior pituitary lobe are controlled by hypothalamic regulators and synthesize six primary hormones.
The most abundantly secreted hormone from the anterior lobe is the growth hormone, which controls overall growth by...
The most abundantly secreted hormone from the anterior lobe is the growth hormone, which controls overall growth by...
14.2K
00:59The Parathyroid Glands
5.2K
The two pairs of parathyroid glands embedded within the posterior surface of the thyroid gland are restricted by a dense capsule around them. These glands comprise two distinct cell populations—parathyroid oxyphil and parathyroid principal cells- pivotal in calcium homeostasis.
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
Oxyphil cells, whose functions remain elusive, emerge during late puberty, adding a layer of complexity to the parathyroid gland's intricacies. In contrast, principal parathyroid cells undertake a vital role by...
5.2K
01:02The Pineal Gland
7.9K
The pineal gland, a diminutive endocrine structure named for its pinecone-shaped appearance, is situated atop the third ventricle within the diencephalon region of the forebrain. This gland, composed of secretory cells known as pinealocytes arranged in compact cords and clusters around dense particles of calcium salts, plays a pivotal role in hormonal regulation.
The primary secretion of the pineal gland is the hormone melatonin, derived from serotonin. The concentration of melatonin in the...
The primary secretion of the pineal gland is the hormone melatonin, derived from serotonin. The concentration of melatonin in the...
7.9K
01:19Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
56
Cortisol production is normally governed by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which maintains hormonal balance through tightly regulated feedback mechanisms. Disruption of this regulatory system is central to the development of Cushing syndrome, whether the excess cortisol originates from external medications or internal pathology. Persistent cortisol elevation alters metabolism, immune function, and endocrine signaling, producing the characteristic clinical features...
56
00:59Structures of the Endocrine System
14.0K
The intricate framework of the endocrine system encompasses a diverse array of glands, with their target tissues and organs strategically distributed throughout the body. Central to this network are the endocrine glands, specialized structures that lack ducts and release hormones directly into the interstitial fluid. Notably, the hypothalamus, a vital neuroendocrine organ situated in the brain, governs neural functions and serves as a potent source of hormonal regulation. Near the hypothalamus...
14.0K