Adrenal cortex

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Reticular layer)

Adrenal Cortex[edit | edit source]

Anatomy of the Adrenal Gland

Overview[edit | edit source]

The adrenal cortex is the outer region of the adrenal glands, which are small but crucial endocrine organs located on top of each kidney. This cortex plays a vital role in hormone production, specifically androgens and corticosteroids, essential for various bodily functions.

Anatomy and Location[edit | edit source]

Hormones Produced by the Adrenal Cortex
  • The adrenal cortex surrounds the inner adrenal medulla.
  • Each adrenal gland is divided into three distinct zones: the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis.

Hormone Production[edit | edit source]

Androgens[edit | edit source]

  • Androgens, such as testosterone, are male sex hormones but are also present in females.
  • They are responsible for the development of male characteristics and reproductive activity.

Corticosteroids[edit | edit source]

  • The adrenal cortex produces two main types of corticosteroids: glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids.
  • Glucocorticoids, like cortisol, regulate the body's stress response, metabolism, and immune response.
  • Mineralocorticoids, such as aldosterone, control blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

Functions[edit | edit source]

  • Regulating metabolism and the immune system.
  • Maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function.
  • Managing the body's response to stress.

Disorders of the Adrenal Cortex[edit | edit source]

  • Conditions like Addison's Disease and Cushing's Syndrome result from the dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.
  • Addison's Disease is characterized by insufficient hormone production, whereas Cushing's Syndrome involves excessive hormone production.

Diagnostic Tests[edit | edit source]

  • Blood tests to measure levels of adrenal hormones.
  • Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to assess the structure of the adrenal glands.

Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]

  • Hormone replacement therapy for conditions like Addison's Disease.
  • Surgical intervention in cases of adrenal tumors or hyperplasia.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

Adrenal cortex Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Kondreddy Naveen