The Parathyroid Glands Quiz

There are four parathyroid glands in humans.

The parathyroid glands are located on the anterior surface of the thyroid gland.

The parathormone is the most important hormone for controlling calcium balance in the blood.

Low blood calcium levels trigger the release of parathormone.

Parathormone works antagonistically to calcitonin.

Over secretion of parathormone is usually caused by a parathyroid gland tumor.

Under secretion of parathormone causes hypercalcemia.

Parathyroid Glands

There are four parathyroid glands in the human body, located on the thyroid gland.
They are small, light-colored masses on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland.

Parathormone

Parathormone is the single most important hormone controlling calcium balance in the blood.
Its release is triggered by low blood Ca2 levels and inhibited by high blood calcium levels.

Parathormone Function

Parathormone works antagonistically to calcitonin.
Over-secretion of parathormone usually results from a parathyroid gland tumor.

Effects of Over-Secretion

Calcium is released from bones, causing bone deformation, softening, and increased risk of fracture.
Blood calcium levels elevate (hypercalcemia), leading to:
- Depression of the nervous system
- Muscle weakness
- Precipitation of excess calcium salts in the kidneys, leading to stone formation

Effects of Under-Secretion

Under-secretion of parathormone causes hypocalcemia.
Hypocalcemia increases the excitability of neurons.
It can lead to tetany, a condition where muscles remain in a contracted state.
If left untreated, hypocalcemia can be fatal.

Test your knowledge on the parathyroid glands and their role in calcium balance with this quiz. Learn about the location, function, and regulation of these small, light-colored masses that are crucial for maintaining blood calcium levels.