Question

Which of the following glands grows to the maximum size at puberty and then diminishes gradually?

• A. Thymus
• B. Pituitary
• C. Thyroid
• D. Adrenal

Answer 1

The correct option is A Thymus

A. Thymus gland is associated with the development of immune system and present on the dorsal side of heart. It secretes thymosin hormone which plays an important role in the differentiation of T-lymphocytes. This gland shows maximum development in children during puberty and after that, it starts diminishing gradually and by the age of 70, it becomes a tiny structure.

B. Pituitary gland is the master gland that regulates the activity of other endocrine glands and secretes many hormones like growth hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone etc.

C. Thyroid gland is situated between the trachea and larynx in the neck and secretes thyroxine hormone which increases oxygen consumption by metabolically active tissues.

D. Adrenal gland is present on upper side of kidneys and has two parts, adrenal cortex which secrete glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and sexocorticoids and adrenal medulla which secrete adrenaline and nor-adrenaline hormone.

So, the correct answer is 'Thymus'.