Which is the smallest gland in the human body?

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Detailed Solution

A. Liver
B. Pituitary gland

The smallest gland in the human body is the pituitary gland. It is a pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain, within a bony structure called the sella turcica, and is connected to the hypothalamus by the pituitary stalk.

Functions:

Regulates growth: Secretes growth hormone (GH), controlling height and bone development.
Controls metabolism: Influences thyroid function through the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Reproduction: Releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which control ovulation in females and sperm production in males.
Stress response: Secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which stimulates adrenal glands.
Lactation: Produces prolactin for milk secretion.

Why it’s important despite its size:
Even though it weighs about 0.5 grams, the pituitary gland is often called the “master gland” because it controls the activity of other endocrine glands. Disorders like hypopituitarism or pituitary tumors can cause severe hormonal imbalances, affecting growth, fertility, and metabolism.

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