Superior hypophyseal artery

Superior Hypophyseal Artery

Illustration of the Superior Hypophyseal Artery from Gray's Anatomy

The Superior Hypophyseal Artery is a small branch of the Internal Carotid Artery that supplies blood to the Pituitary Gland. It is a vital component of the Circulatory System in the human body.

Anatomy

The Superior Hypophyseal Artery originates from the Cavernous Segment of the Internal Carotid Artery. It travels superiorly to the Pituitary Stalk, where it forms a capillary plexus that supplies the Pars Tuberalis and the median eminence of the Hypothalamus.

Function

The primary function of the Superior Hypophyseal Artery is to supply oxygenated blood to the upper part of the Pituitary Gland and the Hypothalamus. It also plays a crucial role in the transport of Hypothalamic Hormones to the anterior pituitary.

Clinical Significance

Damage or blockage of the Superior Hypophyseal Artery can lead to various medical conditions, including Pituitary Adenomas and Hypopituitarism. It is also a significant artery studied in Neurosurgery and Endocrinology.

See Also

• Inferior Hypophyseal Artery
• Pituitary Gland
• Hypothalamus