neurohypophysis
Pronunciation: NYOOR-oh-high-POF-ih-sis
The posterior portion of the pituitary gland that stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus.
Full Definition
The neurohypophysis, also known as the posterior pituitary, is the neural portion of the pituitary gland consisting of nerve terminals from hypothalamic neurons. Unlike the anterior pituitary, it does not synthesize hormones but rather stores and releases antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin that are produced in the hypothalamus. The neurohypophysis is directly connected to the hypothalamus via the hypothalamic-hypophyseal tract, making it functionally an extension of the nervous system rather than a true endocrine gland.
Usage
Usage note: Prefer 'posterior pituitary' in patient-facing documents; use 'neurohypophysis' in technical literature.
In Context
- "Diabetes insipidus resulted from neurohypophysis dysfunction following the surgical procedure." — Post-operative report
- "The neurohypophysis showed enhanced signal intensity on T1-weighted MRI sequences." — Imaging study