Suprarenal artery

Suprarenal Artery

The suprarenal arteries, shown in red, branch from the abdominal aorta. (Image from Gray's Anatomy)

The suprarenal artery (also known as the adrenal artery) is a blood vessel that supplies the adrenal glands. There are typically three suprarenal arteries on each side of the body: the superior, middle, and inferior suprarenal arteries.

Anatomy

The superior suprarenal artery branches from the inferior phrenic artery, while the middle suprarenal artery directly arises from the aorta. The inferior suprarenal artery is a branch of the renal artery. Each of these arteries perfuses a different part of the adrenal gland.

Function

The suprarenal arteries deliver oxygenated blood to the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.

Clinical significance

Damage or blockage of the suprarenal arteries can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a condition characterized by fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure. This condition is typically diagnosed through blood tests and imaging studies.

See also

• Adrenal gland
• Inferior phrenic arteries
• Renal artery