The Endocrine Glands and Lymphatic System

The ductless glands secrete hormones into the blood, and these hormones are responsible for the proper growth of the body and bodily functions. They regulate blood circulation to help the body cells either absorb or prepare waste for elimination, depending on need. Mental activity, including intelligence, and proper physical growth depends to a great extent on the healthy secretion of these hormones.

The most important endocrine glands, which function in coordination with one another, are the pituitary, parathyroid, thyroid and adrenal glands, islets of Langerhans in the pancreas and sex glands. Often, the disease of one endocrine gland affects the function of the other. The main defect of the endocrine glands is the production of either excess or insufficient hormones.