any one of four endocrine glands situated above or within the thyroid gland.

adjective, Greek para = beside, and thyroid; hence, beside the thyroid gland.

Glands in the neck which produce a hormone that affects calcium metabolism.

Any of four small kidney-shaped glands that lie in pairs near the thyroid gland and secrete parathyroid hormone, which is necessary for calcium and phosphorous metabolism.

(pahr'-aw-THI-royd) gland One of four or five pea-shaped glands located embedded into the posterior side of the thyroid gland.

the gland behind the thyroid gland. It is responsible for calcium regulation as well as secreting a hormone that regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism.

Relating to the parathyroid glands, located along the thyroid gland. The main function of the parathyroid glands is to produce a hormone regulating the calcium and phosphorus levels and thus the balance of these minerals in bone.

any of four small kidney-shaped glands that lie near the lateral lobes of the thyroid gland and secrete a hormone necessary for normal calcium and phosphorus metabolism

Are four small pea size glands located behind the thyroid glands. The sole purpose of the parathyroid glands is to regulate the calcium levels so the nervous and muscular systems can function properly.