Adrenal gland

Glandula suprarenalis

Paired glands sitting on top of each kidney. Each gland has an outer cortex (three zones: glomerulosa, fasciculata, reticularis) and an inner medulla. The right gland is pyramidal; the left is crescentic. They are highly vascular with blood supply from three adrenal arteries.

Type Gland
Body System Endocrine
Body Region Abdomen
Parent Structure abdomen element
Latin Name Glandula suprarenalis
FMA ID 9604

Function

Produces steroid hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, androgens) from the cortex and catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine) from the medulla. Essential for stress response, metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and immune function.

Clinical Significance

Addison's disease is primary adrenal insufficiency. Cushing's syndrome results from excess cortisol. Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumor of the medulla. Adrenal crisis is an acute life-threatening condition requiring emergency treatment.

Sub-structures

left adrenal gland Gland right adrenal gland Gland

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Adrenal gland?
Paired glands sitting on top of each kidney. Each gland has an outer cortex (three zones: glomerulosa, fasciculata, reticularis) and an inner medulla. The right gland is pyramidal; the left is crescentic. They are highly vascular with blood supply from three adrenal arteries.
What is the function of the Adrenal gland?
Produces steroid hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, androgens) from the cortex and catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine) from the medulla. Essential for stress response, metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and immune function.
What body system is the Adrenal gland part of?
The Adrenal gland is part of the Endocrine.
What conditions affect the Adrenal gland?
Addison's disease is primary adrenal insufficiency. Cushing's syndrome results from excess cortisol. Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumor of the medulla. Adrenal crisis is an acute life-threatening condition requiring emergency treatment.
Where is the Adrenal gland located?
The Adrenal gland is located in the Abdomen region of the body.

Related Structures

adrenal cortex adrenal gland cortex adrenal gland capsule adrenal capsule adrenal/interrenal gland adrenal - interrenal gland adrenal medulla adrenal central medulla adrenal tissue adrenal gland tissue biliary ductule bile capillary capillary network of liver capillary plexus of liver capillary system of liver liver capillary

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