the Pineal gland

Question 1

anatomical position

Answer 1

1. located between the two cerebral hemispheres
2. attatched by a stalk to the posterior wall of third ventricle
3. close proximity to the gland are superior colliculi of the midbrain

Question 2

function of pineal gland

Answer 2

1. main secretion is melatonin which regulates the circadian rhythm of the body
   2.

Question 3

vascular supply of pineal gland

Answer 3

1. supplied by the posterior choroidal arteries are the main supply
2. branches arise from the posterior cerebral artery

Question 4

Pineal gland tumours

Answer 4

1. most common is a germ cell tumour
2. Symptoms :
   - headache
   - nausea
   - vomiting
3. in children - produces accelerated onset of puberty as one of the functions of the gland is to inhibit sexual development

Question 5

Parinaud syndrome

Answer 5

1. a syndrome caused by pineal gland tumour
2. inability to move the eyes upwards due to compression of the superior colliculi
3. obstruction of the cerebral aqueduct may produce hydrocephalus