Endocrine gland - Definition and Overview

An endocrine gland is one of a set of internal organs involved in the secretion of hormones into the blood. The other major type of gland is the exocrine glands, which secrete substances—usually digestive juices—into the digestive tract or onto the skin.

A list of major endocrine glands:

• pituitary gland
• adrenal gland
• thyroid gland
• gonads
• parathyroid glands
• pancreas
• thymus

See endocrinology.