The reptilian thyroid and parathyroid glands.
The field of reptilian clinical endocrinology is still in its infancy. The thyroid and parathyroid glands are intimately involved with many basic metabolic functions. These glands have been the subject of extensive research studies in reptilian species; however, the effects of abnormal gland function have been poorly documented in clinical cases. These glands play a major role in maintaining physiologic homeostasis in all vertebrates. With the advent of more sensitive assays, it should be possible to measure the small amounts of hormones found in reptilian species. The purpose of this article is to review the literature regarding clinical endocrinology of the thyroid and parathyroid glands in reptiles.
Rivera
Sam
S
Department of Animal Health, Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315-1440, USA. srivera@zooatlanta.org
Lock
Brad
B
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D010279:Parathyroid Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D010280:Parathyroid Glands / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D012104:Reptiles; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*