Which gland is known as the "Master Gland" of the human body?

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

The pituitary gland is called the "Master Gland" because it produces and secretes several hormones that control the function of many other endocrine glands.
Its hormones target glands such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads (ovaries and testes), making it a central regulator of the endocrine system.
The pituitary's function is essential for processes like growth, metabolism, stress response, and reproduction.
While it is the master gland, its own activity is regulated by the hypothalamus, which acts as a higher control center.

Option A: The thyroid gland's primary role is to regulate the body's metabolism. It is a target gland, not a master gland, as its function is controlled by Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary.
Option B: The adrenal glands are responsible for the stress response (cortisol) and electrolyte balance (aldosterone). The adrenal cortex is controlled by Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary, making it a subordinate gland.
Option D: The pancreas has both endocrine functions (regulating blood sugar via insulin and glucagon) and exocrine functions (producing digestive enzymes). It does not control other endocrine glands.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Endocrine System: Role of the Pituitary Gland as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Pituitary tumors are a significant clinical concern as they can cause overproduction or underproduction of hormones, leading to conditions like acromegaly (excess Growth Hormone), Cushing's disease (excess ACTH), or hypothyroidism (deficient TSH).
Nurses play a vital role in monitoring patients with pituitary disorders for signs of hormonal imbalance, such as changes in blood pressure, fluid balance, growth patterns, and metabolic function.
What if? If a patient has a pituitary tumor causing an overproduction of ACTH (Cushing's disease), the nurse would anticipate and monitor for symptoms like hyperglycemia, hypertension, central obesity, and fragile skin. These findings must be documented and reported promptly.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing your knowledge of the endocrine system.
First, identify the key phrase in the question: "Master Gland".
Recall the primary function of each gland listed in the options.
The Thyroid regulates metabolism.
The Adrenal gland manages stress response and salt balance.
The Pancreas regulates blood sugar.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Histology Inderbir 11e pp. 135-137, 152-154

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 213-215

Practise the full DSSSB 6 September 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.