From the Guidelines
The anterior pituitary gland releases several pairs of hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), growth hormone (GH) and prolactin, which are crucial for regulating various bodily functions. These hormone pairs work together to control reproductive functions, regulate the adrenal and thyroid glands, influence growth and lactation, and affect pain perception and skin pigmentation 1. For instance, FSH and LH regulate ovulation in females and sperm production in males, while ACTH and TSH stimulate their target glands to produce other essential hormones. The anterior pituitary releases these hormones in response to signals from the hypothalamus, creating a complex feedback system that maintains hormonal balance throughout the body.
Some of the key pairs of hormones released by the anterior pituitary gland include:
- FSH and LH, which control reproductive functions
- ACTH and TSH, which regulate the adrenal and thyroid glands respectively
- GH and prolactin, which influence growth and lactation
- Beta-endorphin and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which affect pain perception and skin pigmentation. The release of these hormone pairs is essential for maintaining homeostasis across multiple body systems, and any disruption in their balance can lead to various health issues 1.
In the context of pituitary adenomas, which are neoplasms arising from the hormone-secreting cells of the anterior pituitary, the diagnosis and management can be challenging, especially in children and young people under 19 years of age 1. The treatment of pituitary adenomas requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving experts from both pediatric and adult practice, to achieve optimal care and improve quality of life. The Guideline Development Group (GDG) and an international Delphi panel have developed consensus on diagnostic and management recommendations for children and young people with pituitary adenomas, which are included in a two-part consensus guideline 1.
Overall, the paired hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance and regulating various bodily functions, and any disruption in their balance can have significant consequences for morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.
From the Research
Hormones Released from the Anterior Pituitary
The anterior pituitary gland releases several hormones, including:
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone
- Follicle-stimulating hormone
- Luteinizing hormone
- Growth hormone
- Prolactin 2
Pairs of Hormones
Some of these hormones can be grouped into pairs based on their structure or function, such as: