| A
gland, located in a small cavity known as the sella, at the base of
the brain. This structure is important in controlling the hormonal
balance of the body, and is important in the regulation of such hormones
as growth hormone, thyroid function, prolactin, follicle stimulating
hormone, and antidiuretic hormone (for absorbing water from the kidneys).
This gland is located beneath the optic chiasm (nerves to the eyes),
and tumors in this gland may grow and push into the visual nerves,
causing some loss of vision. |
Glossary 
