Endocrine Glands

Definition:
Endocrine glands are organs in the body that produce hormones which are released directly into the bloodstream. Endocrine glands include:

• Thyroid
• Parathyroids
• Pituitary
• Pineal
• Thymus
• Adrenals
• Pancreas
• Gonads - testes (male) and ovaries (female)

Together these glands make up the endocrine system, which performs essential functions like regulating metabolism, growth and reproduction.

Pronunciation: END-oh-krin

Also Known As: ductless glands