Question

Gigantism and acromegaly are two defects produced due to improper functioning of
(a) Thyroid
(b) Pituitary
(c) Thyroid and pituitary
(d) Thyroid, pituitary, and thymus

Answer 1

Hint: Gigantism and acromegaly are caused due to improper functioning of a gland called hypophysis. It is a small gland that lies at the base of the brain. It is connected with the hypothalamus by the pituitary stalk or hypophyseal stalk.

Complete answer:
Gigantism and acromegaly are two defects produced due to the improper functioning of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is anatomically divided into the anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary is also called ‘adenohypophysis’ while the posterior pituitary is called by the name ‘neurohypophysis.’ The anterior pituitary otherwise called pars distalis produces hormones like growth hormone (GH) and prolactin. Growth hormone in children, on over secretion stimulates abnormal growth of the body leading to ‘gigantism’. Conversely, low secretion of growth hormone in children leads to stunted growth resulting in ‘pituitary dwarfism’. Over secretion of growth hormones in adults especially in the middle age can lead to severe disfigurement (especially of the face). This condition is called ‘acromegaly’.
- Neurohypophysis (pars nervosa) stores and releases two hormones, oxytocin and vasopressin (ADH).
- The thymus gland is situated in front of the trachea just below the thyroid gland.
So, the correct answer is, ‘Pituitary.’

Note:
- The pituitary gland is also called ‘hypophysis.’
- Over secretion of thyroid hormone is called ‘hyperthyroidism’. The signs and symptoms include intolerance to heat, increased sweating, decreased bodyweight, diarrhoea, and muscular weakness among others.
- The thymus plays an important role in the development of immunity in the body. Its functions include processing the T- Lymphocytes and endocrine functions.