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When starting an anatomy and physiology training course for the first time, the task can be challenging. Particularly when you come across organ names that sound similar, but are in fact, not connected at all.
Take the thymus gland and the thyroid gland as an example.
They have similar-sounding names, but bear no similarity in their anatomy, physiology or pathology.
Look at the differences
Its shape looks similar to a thyme leaf (hence its name)
It consists of two lobes. Each lobe has a central medulla and an outer cortex
The gland is located behind the sternum, in front of the heart and between the two lungs
It is primarily a lymphoid organ of the immune system, but does produce hormones to support the immune response
T-lymphocytes (T-cells) are produced in the outer cortex of the gland lobes
The T-cells then mature in the central medulla of the gland lobes
This maturation is supported by hormones, such as thymosin, which are specifically produced by the thymus
The gland is active from birth and through puberty. It then gradually atrophies (shrinks).
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a condition whereby the thymus gland is abnormally large and manufactures antibodies that destroy receptor sites in muscles, causing them to become weak.
It is butterfly-shaped
It has two lobes joined by an isthmus or bridge
It is located in front of the trachea, just below the Adam?s apple
A gland of the endocrine system
On receipt of signals from the pituitary gland, the thyroid produces thyroxin, triiodothyronine and calcitonin to regulate the body?s metabolic rate
Thus it controls heart, muscle and digestive function
It also controls brain development and bone health
Hyperthyroidism: too much hormone produced, causing weight loss, increased heart rate and muscle weakness, amongst other symptoms
Hypothyroidism: too little hormone produced. The body uses energy at a slower pace, thus symptoms include weight gain, slower heart rate and fatigue.
Want to know more?
To find out more about the immune and endocrine systems, join our Anatomy and Physiology online course. Here you?ll work towards the internationally recognised ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology:
https://www.anatomyandphysiologyonline.com
If you work in complementary therapies and need a revision aid or simply a refresher, why not sign up for our Anatomy and Physiology Revision E-Course?
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