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pineal gland


pituitary and pineal glands
A small, cone-shaped endocrine gland, also called the pineal body or epiphysis cerebri. The pineal gland extends posteriorly from the third ventricle of the brain. It consists of portions of neurons, neuroglial cells, and specialized secretory cells called pinealocytes. The pinealocytes synthesize the hormone melatonin and secrete it directly into the cerebrospinal fluid, which takes it into the blood. Melatonin affects reproductive development and daily physiologic cycles.

Calcium deposition in the pineal makes it a useful marker of midline in skull X-rays.


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   • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY


Source: National Cancer Institute


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