title: The anatomy and physiology of the avian endocrine system.
abstract: The endocrine system of birds is comparable to that of mammals, although there are many unique aspects to consider when studying the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. Avian endocrinology is a field of veterinary medicine that is unfamiliar to many practitioners; however, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding when evaluating companion birds in clinical practice. This article covers the anatomy and physiology of the normal avian, and readers are referred to other articles for a more detailed explanation of altered physiology and pathology.
authors.affiliation: Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies. mritchie@rossvet.edu.kn
authors.forename: Midge
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ritchie
authors.forename: Anthony A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Pilny
mesh_terms: D000311:Adrenal Glands / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds; D004703:Endocrine System / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D010179:Pancreas / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D010280:Parathyroid Glands / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D010870:Pineal Gland / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D010902:Pituitary Gland / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology