Anatomy and physiology of the thyroid

The thyroid is an endocrine gland which regulates body metabolism through the production of thyroid hormones. It is located under the Adam's apple, on the trachea. It weighs between 15-30 grams and is formed by two lobes in butterfly shape on either side of the trachea.

Anatomy of the thyroid

The thyroid gland has butterfly shaped and consists of two lobes connected by the isthmus. This gland is located at the front of the neck, the height of the vertebrae C5-T1. Overlies the surrounding her trachea to subsequently reach the esophagus.

The thyroid is supplied by two arteries: the superior thyroid and inferior thyroid; and drains venous flow through three veins: the superior thyroid vein, middle thyroid vein and the inferior thyroid vein.

Thyroid physiology

The thyroid gland involved in the production of thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine called. These hormones regulate metabolism and influence growth and function of other organ systems. Iodine is an essential component of these hormones.

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