Prostatitis is defined as the inflammation of which gland?

Prostatitis is specifically defined as the inflammation of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in males. It plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system by producing a fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Inflammation of the prostate can result from various causes, including bacterial infections or non-bacterial factors, leading to symptoms such as pain in the pelvic area, difficulties urinating, and sometimes fever and chills.

The other options pertain to different glands in the body that serve distinct functions. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" for its role in regulating numerous hormonal functions. The thyroid gland is crucial for metabolism and overall development, while the adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones related to stress response and metabolism. These glands are unrelated to prostatitis, which focuses solely on the inflammation of the prostate. Thus, the correct answer for this question is the prostate gland.