A large butterfly-shaped endocrine gland situated on the front of the neck that produces various hormones. Removal due to thyroid cancer is termed a total thyroidectomy
—A gland located in the front of the neck below the voice box that plays an important role in metabolism (the chemical processes in the body) and growth; produces thyroid hormone
n. A two-lobed endocrine gland found in all vertebrates, located in front of and on either side of the trachea in humans, and producing various hormones, such as triiodothyronine and calcitonin. Endocrine gland in the throat that secretes hormones vital to metabolism and growth. Secretion of thyroid hormones mostly thyroxine (T4) is controlled by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), released by the pituitary gland when the level of thyroid hormones in the blood drops below a certain threshold (see endocrine system). These hormones' primary action in adults is to regulate cellular oxygen consumption (metabolic rate). They also lower blood cholesterol and are necessary for normal growth and development in children. The thyroid also produces calcitonin, a hormone that stimulates deposition of calcium from the blood into the bones, balancing the action of parathyroid hormone. See also goitre; Graves disease; iodine deficiency
A small, butterfly-shaped endocrine organ located in the neck below and in front of the Adam's apple The thyroid gland weighs about 20 to 25 grams and produces thyroid hormone, which is released into the bloodstream
An important organ in humans that helps regulate growth and the rate of chemical reactions (metabolism) in the body by releasing hormones The thyroid gland is located in the lower part of the front of the neck