adenohypophysis
Pronunciation: ADD-eh-no-high-POF-ih-sis
The anterior portion of the pituitary gland that synthesizes and secretes multiple hormones.
Full Definition
The adenohypophysis, also known as the anterior pituitary, is the glandular portion of the pituitary that synthesizes and secretes six major hormones: growth hormone (GH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin (PRL). Unlike the posterior pituitary, the adenohypophysis is not directly connected to the hypothalamus but is regulated through the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal system, which carries releasing and inhibiting hormones from the hypothalamus to control anterior pituitary function.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'anterior pituitary' in clinical documentation; 'adenohypophysis' used in formal anatomical contexts.
In Context
- "MRI revealed a macroadenoma compressing the adenohypophysis and causing panhypopituitarism." — Radiology report
- "The adenohypophysis showed normal enhancement patterns following contrast administration." — Imaging interpretation