Endocrine Review of Systems Questions Related

Review Endocrine Review of Systems Questions related questions and content

The posterior pituitary gland receives hormone messages from the hypothalamus via ________.

  • A. a capillary network
  • B. neurons that extend from the hypothalamus to the pituitary
  • C. Schwann cells
  • D. both a and b
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: neurons that extend from the hypothalamus to the pituitary. The hypothalamus produces hormones that are stored and released by the posterior pituitary gland. This communication is facilitated by specialized neurons that extend from the hypothalamus to the pituitary, forming the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. These neurons release hormones into the bloodstream, which then reach the posterior pituitary gland and stimulate the release of its stored hormones. Choice A is incorrect because the posterior pituitary does not directly receive messages through a capillary network. Choice C is incorrect as Schwann cells are responsible for myelinating peripheral nerves, not hormone communication. Choice D is incorrect because while the hypothalamus communicates with the pituitary gland through neurons, it does not involve a capillary network.