Anatomy
parathyroid gland
par·a·thy·roid gland [ par-uh-thahy-roid gland ]
Subclass of:
Endocrine Glands
Definitions related to parathyroid gland:
-
(gland, parathyroid) Endocrine gland, usually in close proximity to the thyroid gland, that produces parathyroid hormone.CDISC TerminologyClinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC), 2021
-
One of two small paired endocrine glands, superior and inferior, usually found embedded in the connective tissue capsule on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland; these glands secrete parathyroid hormone that regulates the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus. The parenchyma is composed of chief and oxyphilic cells arranged in anastomosing cords.NCI ThesaurusU.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
-
Small paired endocrine glands in the region of the thyroid gland which secrete parathyroid hormone and are concerned with the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus.CRISP ThesaurusNational Institutes of Health, 2006
-
Glands responsible for releasing a hormone that controls calcium levels and influences bone loss and growth.Harvard Dictionary of Health TermsHarvard Medical Publishing, 2011
-
Two pairs of small oval-shaped glands located in the front and the base of the NECK and adjacent to the two lobes of THYROID GLAND. They secrete PARATHYROID HORMONE that regulates the balance of CALCIUM; PHOSPHORUS; and MAGNESIUM in the body.NLM Medical Subject HeadingsU.S. National Library of Medicine, 2021
-
Four parathyroid glands are found near the posterior aspect of the thyroid gland. They are small (20-40 mg) and have a beanlike shape.WebMD, 2019
-
Parathyroid gland, endocrine gland occurring in all vertebrate species from amphibia upward, usually located close to and behind the thyroid gland. Humans usually have four parathyroid glands, each composed of closely packed epithelial cells separated by thin fibrous bands and some fat cells. The...Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2020
Return to OpenMD Medical Dictionary
> P
This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.