Atlas (C1) vs Pituitary gland
| Property | Atlas (C1) | Pituitary gland |
|---|---|---|
| Latin Name | Atlas | Glandula pituitaria |
| Type | Bone | Gland |
| Body System | Skeletal | Endocrine |
| Body Region | Spine | Brain |
| Function | The first cervical vertebra that supports the skull. Allows nodding movements (flexion and extension) of the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. | The master endocrine gland, producing hormones that regulate growth (GH), reproduction (FSH, LH, prolactin), thyroid function (TSH), adrenal function (ACTH), and water balance (ADH). Coordinates the activity of other endocrine … |
| Clinical Significance | Jefferson fractures (burst fractures of the atlas) result from axial loading. Atlanto-occipital dislocation is usually fatal. Congenital anomalies include atlas assimilation (occipitalization). | Pituitary adenomas can cause hormone excess or deficiency. Acromegaly results from excess growth hormone. Cushing's disease results from excess ACTH. Pituitary apoplexy is acute hemorrhage or infarction of the gland. … |
| FMA ID | 12519 | 13889 |
Full structure pages
Atlas (C1)
Atlas
Ring-shaped and unusual in lacking both a vertebral body and a spinous process, the atlas is the first cervical vertebra and supports the skull. Its structure consists of anterior and posterior arches joined by two …
Pituitary gland
Glandula pituitaria
Often described as the master endocrine gland, the pituitary coordinates the activity of other endocrine glands through the hormones it secretes, governing growth, reproduction, thyroid function, adrenal function, and water balance. This pea-sized gland occupies …