Adrenal gland

Overview What is the adrenal cortex? The cortex is the outer part of your adrenal gland. It releases hormones that support your well-being. It consists of three layers: • Zona glomerulosa (outer layer). • Zona fasciculata (middle layer). • Zona reticularis (innermost layer). Are there other parts of the adrenal gland? The cortex takes up 85% of adrenal gland tissue, but it’s not the only part. This gland also contains a small inner section (medulla). The adrenal gland resembles the size and shape of a fortune cookie. Where are the adrenal glands? You have two adrenal glands, one on top of each kidney. Your kidneys sit just below your ribcage. Function What is the function of the adrenal cortex? The adrenal cortex produces hormones that support vital organ functioning. Each adrenal cortex layer produces different hormones. What adrenal cortex hormones develop in the zona glomerulosa? The zona glomerulosa produces aldosterone. This hormone affects your body in many ways, by: • Causing water retention. • Increasing levels of sodium in your intestines. • Ridding your body of excess potassium through urine output. What adrenal cortex hormones develop in the zona fasciculata? The zona fasciculata produces • Controls blood sugar levels. • Supports the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins and fats ( • Regulates • Suppresses inflammation. • Regulates your sleep-wake cycle. • Raises glucose levels when the body is under What adrenal cortex hormones develop in the zona reticularis? T...

Synonyms: Adrenal gland, Glandula adrenalis External environmental changes can create scenarios that the adrenal glands, also known as the suprarenal glands. These yellow, asymmetrical organs, located suprarenally and bilaterally in the retroabdominal cavity, are responsible for secreting stress hormones that stimulates the physiological adaptations necessary to mitigate the change in the external environment. This article will evaluate the development of the suprarenal glands, the relationship between its structure and function, neurovascular and lymphatic components and some pathological conditions that they are associated with. Structure/function relationship Location and relations The left and right suprarenal glands differ slightly in their shape and location on top of their respective right gland is more pyramidal and sits on top of the upper pole of the kidney, while the left gland is more crescenteric and hangs more over the medial side of the left kidney, superior to the hilum. Suprarenal glands inside a cadaver Suprarenal glands are easy to spot during a dissection. They look like two pyramids located in close proximity to the superior pole of each kidney. The right suprarenal gland rests on the renal fascia of Gerota, with a sheath of fascia separating it from its kidney. Learn more about the organs related to the suprarenal glands, such as the Ureters Explore study unit Cortex of suprarenal gland Essentially the gland is divided into three layers. However, ...