Parathyroid gland

The parathyroid glands are four small glands in the neck that produce parathyroid hormone. They are usually located on the back of the thyroid, but can be located anywhere near it. Each gland is about 6 mm long and 4 mm wide. They share arteries and veins with each other and with the thyroid, and also share a lymphatic system. Although the glands were found in a rhinoceros in 1852, they were not described in humans until 1880. Their role in the endocrine system was developed from 1891 to 1908.
The glands play a key role in the regulation of calcium and phosphates in the body. When they overproduce their hormones (hyperparathyroidism), bone pain and high calcium levels are the result. When they underproduce their hormones (hypoparathyroidism) results in lower calcium levels overall.
Parathyroid gland at Wikipedia
Category:Anatomy
Category:Endocrinology