Inferior suprarenal artery

Inferior suprarenal artery

The inferior suprarenal artery is one of the blood vessels supplying the adrenal gland. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The Inferior suprarenal artery is a small blood vessel that supplies the adrenal gland with oxygenated blood. It is one of three arteries that serve this function, the others being the superior suprarenal artery and the middle suprarenal artery.

Anatomy

The inferior suprarenal artery originates from the renal artery, which itself branches off the abdominal aorta. It travels superiorly to reach the lower part of the adrenal gland, where it branches into numerous smaller vessels that penetrate the glandular tissue.

Function

The primary function of the inferior suprarenal artery is to supply the adrenal gland with oxygenated blood. This is crucial for the gland's production of hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and adrenaline.

Clinical significance

Damage to the inferior suprarenal artery can lead to insufficient blood supply to the adrenal gland, potentially resulting in adrenal insufficiency. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation.

See also

• Adrenal gland
• Renal artery
• Abdominal aorta