Hypothalamic

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Hypothalamic is a term that refers to the hypothalamus, a small region of the brain that plays a crucial role in many important functions, including releasing hormones and regulating body temperature. The hypothalamus is located below the thalamus and is part of the limbic system.

Function[edit | edit source]

The hypothalamus is responsible for certain metabolic processes and other activities related to the autonomic nervous system. It synthesizes and secretes certain neurohormones, often called hypothalamic-releasing hormones, and these in turn stimulate or inhibit the secretion of pituitary hormones.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The hypothalamus is located below the thalamus, just above the brain stem. In the terminology of neuroanatomy, it forms the ventral part of the diencephalon. All vertebrate brains contain a hypothalamus. In humans, it is roughly the size of an almond.

Disorders[edit | edit source]

Disorders of the hypothalamus can lead to a range of health problems. These include hypothalamic disease, hypopituitarism, Kallmann syndrome, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hypothalamic disorders typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include hormone replacement therapy, surgery, radiation therapy, or medications to replace deficient hormones.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Hypothalamic Resources

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