Thyroid Gland: Position in the Body, Shape, Hormones Secreted by the Gland and Functions

Thyroid gland is an important endocrine gland, which performs several functions in the body and affects the activity of almost all organs.

What is Thyroid Gland?

Thyroid gland is an important endocrine gland, which performs several functions in the body and affects the activity of almost all organs.

Position of Thyroid Gland in the Body

It is situated in the anterior part of neck, just below the larynx (voice box).

Shape of Thyroid Gland

It has two lobes, which spread over either side of trachea. The two lobes are joined at the front by a narrow strip of tissue. It roughly resembles the shape of a butterfly.

Hormones secreted by Thyroid Gland

Thyroid gland secretes 2 hormones which collectively make the ‘thyroid hormone’:

1. T3/ Triiodothyronine

2. T4/ Tetraiodothyronine/ Thyroxine

Thyroid gland also secretes a third hormone, called as Calcitonin, which isn’t classified under the term ‘thyroid hormone’. Calcitonin controls utilization of calcium by the body.

Overview of Functions of Thyroid Gland

Overall function of Thyroid gland includes increasing basal metabolism of the body as well as affecting calcium and bone metabolism. The following are some of the many functions influenced by the thyroid hormone:

1. As a cumulative effect of T3 and T4, rise in body temperature occurs.

2. Thyroid hormone also increases/ decreases heartbeat.

3. Maturation of brain in children.

4. Growth of children is promoted by the action of Thyroid hormone.

5. Thyroid hormone also regulates the rate at which the body utilizes calories, hence affecting weight gain/loss.

Problems Associated with Thyroid Gland

1. Hypothyroidism

This condition arises when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. It leads to symptoms such as abnormal weight gain, lowering heart rate and decreased tolerance to cold temperatures.

2. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when thyroid gland is producing and hence, releasing excess of thyroid hormone. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include an increase in heart rate, abnormal weight loss and increased appetite.

3. Goiter

Goiter is characterized either by enlargement of the whole thyroid gland, or enlargement of just a part of thyroid gland. The reason behind this condition may or may not be related to thyroid hormones.

4. Cancer

Thyroid cancer starts as malignant tumor in the tissue of the gland. Although nodular structures are commonly found in the tissue but they are not cancerous.

Types of Thyroid Tests

Several pathological tests are done to assess the amount of hormones that are:

Secreted by Thyroid gland (T3 and T4)
Or the one that affects the activity of hormone production by Thyroid gland (TSH secreted by Pituitary Gland)

Thyroid tests are prescribed by Doctors after examining the symptoms shown by patients.

Why Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre should be your preference for Thyroid tests?

Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre holds an excellent reputation and expertise in diagnostics and imaging techniques since 2001.
Owing to the great service to its patients, Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre is accredited to NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers), which the highest standard of quality service to patients, and NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories), which shows the competency of the lab and equipment based on some national and international standards.
Pathology testing operates 24 hours- 365 days, hence, ensuring service to the patients around the clock!
The accuracy of test reports reinforces the trust of patients.
Blood samples are collected in a hassle-free manner.
Report is generated within 24 hours of sample collection.
Free Home Sample Collection service is also available, which brings the lab to the doorstep of the patient. Sample is collected aseptically from the patient’s house, and transported back to the lab for testing. Report is digitally sent to the patient!
The rates of thyroid tests at Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre are reasonably priced, improving the affordability of tests for general public.
Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre also offers a whopping discount of 50% on most of the tests.