Expert: Florence M Rollwagen - 6/14/2008

Question
why is the pitutary gland known as the master gland? and what is meant by hirsuitism?

Answer
Hi Doon:  Thanks for your question.  The pituitary is often called the "master gland" because it controls the secretions of many other endocrine glands in the body.  Among these are TSH - thyroid stimulating hormone (responsible for functions of the thyroid), FSH - follicle stimulating hormone (responsible for functions of the reproductive system), prolactin (responsible for milk production in mammals).

The pituitary is divided into three lobes: the anterior, which secretes the hormones mentioned above, the intermediate, which is responsible for MSH - melanocyte stimulating hormone (skin pigmentation), and the posterior, which secretes oxytocin, a hormone responsible for uterine contractions during childbirth.

The pituitary is attached to the hypothalamus (part of the brain) by a stalk containing nerve fibers.

Hirsutism is a condition of excessive hair growth, especially in areas where hair does not normally grow.  It can be caused by a number of endocrine and physiological conditions such as: Polycystic ovary syndrome, Cushing's disease, tumors in the ovaries or adrenal gland (cancer), certain medications, hormone imbalance, genetics
among others.

I hope this answer helps you.  Please write back if you have more questions.