Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland

7. Key Points Summary

• The anterior pituitary is glandular, controlled by hypothalamic releasing/inhibiting hormones via the portal system, and secretes trophic hormones.
• The posterior pituitary is neural, acts as a storage and release site for hypothalamic hormones ADH and oxytocin.
• Hypothalamic nuclei:
  • Arcuate & paraventricular (releasing hormones) → anterior pituitary regulation
  • Supraoptic & paraventricular (ADH/oxytocin) → posterior pituitary outpu
  • Disorders can involve hypersecretion, hyposecretion, or mass effects