Pituitary + Pineal

Pituitary Gland:

Also known as the master gland and the hypophysis, it is connected to the hypothalamus in the brain via the infundibulum and releases hormones based on the signals sent from the hypothalamus. It contains two different lobes, the anterior adenohypophysis and the posterior neurohypophysis. In the anterior lobes are the following hormones:

Growth Hormone stimulates protein synthesis which affects bone and muscle growth, affecting height and weight
Thyroid-stimulating hormone, or thyrotropin signals the thyroid to secrete hormones
Adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulates the adrenal gland to secrete its hormones
Gonadotropic hormones signal the ovaries and testes to secrete their hormones. In the posterior lobe are the following hormones: Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) manages water retention in the kidneys
Oxytocin aids in contracting the uterus and lactation

Pineal Gland:

Cone-shaped and also located in the brain, it is made up of pinealocytes which make melatonin which affects sleeping patterns.

Diseases and Conditions

Acromegaly

The overproduction of growth hormone makes bones too large. It is common in the hands, feet, and hands.

Hypopituitarism

Lack of hormone production from the pituitary gland. When this happens, it may affect the effectiveness of the adrenal and thyroid glands.

Prolactinoma

Excess production of prolactin, which is charge of breast milk. It can lead to erectile dysfunction and infertility.