Example Of Anatomy And Physiology Research Paper

Background

The state of well-being within the human body is described as being in health. There are certain human body mechanisms that have to occur in order for a person to feel that he/she is in good health. A minor variation of the conditions of human health usually leads to a state of abnormality in regard to the functions of various organs, tissues and cells within the human body, a scenario described as being in ill-health. The thyroid gland is one of imperative human body parts that play a significant role in regulating certain functions within the human body. It is a butterfly-shape gland, which is located at the front part of human neck (Mohamedali, 2014). It lies underneath the Adam’s apple, specifically at the front of wind-pipe. It has two parts, which are connected by isthmus or what may be referred as a bridge. In its normal conditions, it cannot be felt. It is also has a characteristic red color, with numerous blood vessels and nerves, which are imperative for control the quality of voice that pass through it (Mohamedali, 2014).

Functions of the Thyroid Gland within the Human Body

The function of the thyroid gland involves production, storage and release of thyroid hormones into the human body blood stream. These hormones are biologically referred as T3 and T4, which are liothyronine and levothyroxine respectively. They affect almost all human body cells, hence impacting growth and development as well as metabolism and human body temperature. Thyroid gland also plays a significant role among infants; its existence in adequate amount among children is imperative for effective brain development.

Disorders of the Thyroid Gland

The most common disorders of the thyroid gland are: Hashimoto’s disease; it is also scientifically described as chronic lymphatic thyroiditis. In the United States, it is one of the most common thyroid disorders. It is mainly caused by hypothyroidism or underproduction of thyroid hormones. It occurs at any age; however, its prevalence among women is relatively higher. This disorder results when the human body immune system destroys the thyroid gland gradually, reducing its capacity to produce thyroid hormone (Mohamedali, 2014).
Grave’s Disease is also another disease of the thyroid gland; it is caused by hyperthyroidism, that is, over-production of thyroid hormones. It is caused when the human body immune system attacks the thyroid gland mistakenly, leading to over-production of thyroid hormone. It is also an hereditary disease and affects mostly women of age 20 and above. The other disorder of the thyroid gland is referred as Goiter; it is scientifically described as a scientific non-cancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland (Mohamedali, 2014). Its main is cause is inadequate iodine within the body; it has also been regarded as a symptom of hyperthyroidism. It affects people at any age, although its prevalence is higher among women of 50 years and above. Consequently, Thyroid Nodules are also among the most common disorders of the thyroid gland. They are described as growth within or on the thyroid gland. Scientists have not provided any clear research indicating their causes; however, inadequate iodine and Hashimoto’s disease have been considered its major cause (Mohamedali, 2014).

Importance of this Topic and Important Study that has been conducted on Thyroid Gland

In a research article published in the New York Time, various disorders of the thyroid gland are stated i.e. hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, this research was important considering the fact that the author described how treatment of thyroid disorders are provided and the actions that patients should take during post treatment (www.nytimes.com). I believe that studying this topic not only important for increasing our understanding on thyroid disorders, but also enhances our capacities to live healthy lives and seek medical attention in case one experiences symptoms of thyroid gland.

References

Hypothyroidism - In-Depth Report - NY Times Health. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/hypothyroidism/print.html
Mohamedali, M., et al. (2014). Thyroid disorders and chronic kidney disease. International journal of nephrology, 2014.