Hypothalamus: Anatomy, Dysfunction and Disease Management

The hypothalamus is a part of the brain, which is structurally small but functionally significant. The brainstem and its reticular formation are extremely interconnected with the hypothalamus. It is a part of the limbic system and it has connections to other limbic structures such as septum and amygdala. It is also well connected to the areas of the autonomous nervous system. The hypothalamus works as a control center for various endocrine functions. It regulates endocrine systems by secreting various hormones such as oxytocin, growth hormone-releasing hormone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, corticotropin-releasing hormone and antidiuretic hormone. Hypothalamic disease is a type of disorder which can lead to disruptions in growth, weight, emotions, sleep cycles, etc. It can also result in hypopituitarism, neurogenic diabetes insipidus, tertiary hypothyroidism, and developmental disorders. There are several causes of hypothalamic disease such as head trauma, radiation, tumor, genetic disorders, lesion, surgery, and illness caused due to malnutrition. This book attempts to understand the anatomy and dysfunction of the hypothalamus along with disease management. It will serve as a valuable source of reference for graduate and post graduate students.