Adrenal glands

Definition

Adrenal glands are triangle-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys.

The outer part of the adrenal gland is called the cortex and produces steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and testosterone. The inner part of the adrenal gland is called the medulla and produces epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are commonly called adrenaline and noradrenaline.

When the glands produce more or less hormones than your body needs, you can become sick.

Information

Related topics:

• Addison's disease
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Cushing syndrome
• Hirsutism
• Hump behind shoulders
• Hypoglycemia
• Primary aldosteronism
• Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome

References

Parker KL, Rainey WE. The adrenal glands. In: Griffin JE, Ojeda SR, eds. Textbook of Endocrine Physiology. New York: Oxford University Press; 2004:319-348.