Nationally Registered Certified Coding Specialist (NRCCS) Practice Exam

The thymus gland is not the correct answer when considering the regulation of calcium and phosphate levels in the blood. The gland responsible for this function is actually the parathyroid gland, which is located adjacent to the thyroid gland. The parathyroid glands secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH) in response to low levels of calcium in the blood, which increases calcium levels by stimulating bone resorption, promoting calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, and enhancing intestinal absorption of calcium. Phosphate levels are also indirectly affected, as increased calcium can lower phosphate levels due to the effect of PTH.

The thyroid gland primarily regulates metabolism through thyroid hormones and plays a limited role in calcium regulation through the secretion of calcitonin, which lowers blood calcium levels. The adrenal gland produces hormones related to stress response and metabolism, while the pituitary gland regulates various endocrine functions through the secretion of several hormones but does not directly control calcium or phosphate levels. Understanding the specific roles of these glands is essential for comprehending endocrine regulation of mineral levels in the body.