The thyroid and parathyroid glands are small endocrine glands located in the neck. Endocrine glands produce and release hormones directly into the bloodstream. Understanding their specific anatomical locations is helpful for general health awareness.
The Thyroid Gland’s Home
The thyroid gland is situated in the anterior, or front, part of the lower neck. It typically has a distinctive butterfly shape, consisting of two lobes—a left and a right—connected by a narrow band of tissue called the isthmus. This gland wraps around the front of the trachea, also known as the windpipe. It lies just below the larynx, or voice box.
The thyroid gland extends from the fifth cervical vertebra down to the first thoracic vertebra. Its lobes measure about 5 cm in length. The gland’s location is superficial enough that it cannot be visibly seen, but it can be felt by pressing a finger to the front of the neck.
The Parathyroid Glands’ Hidden Spots
There are typically four parathyroid glands, though the exact number can vary from two to six or more in some individuals. These glands are small, measuring approximately 6 mm long and 3 to 4 mm wide. They are commonly located on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland.
The parathyroid glands can be found embedded within the connective tissue capsule surrounding the thyroid, or even within the thyroid tissue itself. While superior parathyroid glands are usually near the upper poles of the thyroid lobes, inferior parathyroid glands often show more variability in their precise position. Their exact placement can differ from person to person, sometimes appearing along the esophagus or even in the chest.
Why Their Proximity Matters
The close anatomical relationship between the thyroid and parathyroid glands means they are often considered together in medical evaluations. Their shared location in the neck makes them common subjects for examination, such as during physical examinations or imaging studies. This proximity also has implications for medical professionals, particularly surgeons.
When surgery is performed on the thyroid gland, there is a risk of inadvertently affecting the nearby parathyroid glands. Surgeons therefore take great care to identify and preserve the parathyroid glands during neck procedures. This careful consideration of their shared space helps maintain the function of both sets of glands.