Which endocrine gland becomes inactive in old age

Options

A. Thyroid
B. Thymus
C. Pancreas
D. Spleen.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Endocrine Glands**: The question asks about an endocrine gland that becomes inactive in old age. The options provided are thyroid, thymus, pancreas, and spleen.

2. **Understand the Function of Each Gland**:
- **Thyroid Gland**: It regulates metabolism and is active throughout life.
- **Thymus Gland**: It is crucial for the development of the immune system, particularly in childhood and adolescence.
- **Pancreas**: It produces insulin and regulates blood sugar levels, remaining active throughout life.
- **Spleen**: While it plays a role in immune function, it is not primarily an endocrine gland.

3. **Focus on the Thymus Gland**: The thymus is well-developed at birth and continues to grow until puberty. After puberty, it begins to shrink and can become almost non-functional in old age.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the information, the thymus gland becomes inactive in old age, making it the correct answer.

5. **Final Answer**: The endocrine gland that becomes inactive in old age is the **thymus**.

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