The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of both kidneys.
They are part of the body’s endocrine system, producing hormones that are vital for life.
Each adrenal gland is structurally and functionally divided into two main parts: the adrenal cortex and the adrenal medulla, each responsible for producing different sets of hormones.
Structure
1) Adrenal Cortex
The outer section of the gland, makes up the bulk of the adrenal gland.
It is divided into three zones: the zona glomerulosa, the zona fasciculata, and the zona reticularis. Each zone produces different types of hormones.
2) Adrenal Medulla
The inner section of the gland, which produces adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine).
Function of Adrenal glands
1) Adrenal Cortex
Aldosterone: Regulates blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
Cortisol: Controls metabolism, immune response, and stress.
Androgens: Precursors to sex hormones, influencing sexual development.
2) Adrenal Medulla
Adrenaline and Noradrenaline: Increase heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar for emergency "fight or flight" responses.
Disorders of Adrenal glands
Addison's Disease: Insufficient cortisol and aldosterone, leading to fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure. Often autoimmune.
Cushing's Syndrome: Excess cortisol, causing weight gain, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis. Often due to tumors or corticosteroid use.
Primary Hyperaldosteronism (Conn's Syndrome): Excess aldosterone causing high blood pressure and low potassium, often from a benign tumor.
Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal medulla causing excessive catecholamines, leading to severe hypertension and rapid heart rate.
Adrenal Cancer: Malignant tumors that may cause hormone overproduction, mimicking other adrenal disorders.
Treatment of Adrenal glands
Medications: To replace deficient hormones (e.g., hydrocortisone for Addison's) or control excess hormones (e.g., mitotane for adrenal cancer).
Surgery: To remove tumors.
Management: Ongoing monitoring and symptom management for hormone balance.
