What is the thyroid gland?
The thyroid gland is called the thyroid gland. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland with two lobes joined by a narrow isthmus.
What it is
- A butterfly-shaped endocrine gland with two lobes joined by a narrow isthmus.
- Produces thyroid hormones and calcitonin.
- Its hormones regulate the body's metabolic rate.
Where it is
- In the front of the neck, just below the thyroid cartilage of the larynx.
- Wraps around the upper part of the trachea.
- The isthmus lies in front of the second to fourth tracheal rings.
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Last verified: 2026-07-18
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