ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site parathyroid gland Four small, yellowish-brown, pea-like masses of epithelial tissue that are embedded in the connective tissue capsule on the posterior surface of the thyroid glands. The parathyroid glands are endocrine glands which secrete parathyroid hormone or parathormone. Parathyroid hormone is the most important regulator of blood calcium levels. The hormone is secreted in response to low blood calcium levels, and its effect is to increase those levels. Hypoparathyroidism, or insufficient secretion of parathyroid hormone, leads to increased nerve excitability. The low blood calcium levels trigger spontaneous and continuous nerve impulses, which then stimulate muscle contraction. Hyperparathyroidism is the excessive secretion of parathyroid hormone, ususually due to a small tumor in one of the parathyroid glands. It results in hypercalcemia. Parathyroidectomy is the surgical removal of the parathyroid glands, usually as part of the treatment of hyperparathyroidism. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP