Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which gland is located at the base of the brain and has two lobes?

1. Pineal gland

2. Thyroid gland

3. Pituitary gland

4. Parathyroid gland

The correct answer is: Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," is located at the base of the brain and is composed of two distinct lobes: the anterior lobe and the posterior lobe. This gland plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions by secreting hormones that influence growth, metabolism, and reproductive processes. The anterior lobe produces hormones such as growth hormone, prolactin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone, which affect various organs and systems throughout the body. The posterior lobe, on the other hand, stores and releases hormones produced by the hypothalamus, including oxytocin and vasopressin. Other glands mentioned in the options do not have the same anatomical location or structure. The pineal gland, for example, is located deeper in the brain and primarily regulates sleep cycles through melatonin production. The thyroid gland is situated in the neck, responsible for regulating metabolism through hormones such as thyroxine. The parathyroid glands, also located in the neck, are involved in regulating calcium levels in the body. Thus, the pituitary gland's unique position and its two-lobed structure make it the correct answer.