From the outermost to innermost, the layers of the adrenal cortex are as follows: Each zone therefore is responsible for producing and secreting specific hormone groups. During the embryonic period, the cortex is derived from the embryonic mesoderm.Ĭells of the adrenal cortex are classified into three types that produce specific hormones, and they are arranged in three layers or zones. The cortex totally encloses the adrenal medulla. The adrenal cortex is the outer part of the adrenal gland, and it is also the largest part. They also differ in their embryonic development, so the adrenal cortex and medulla can actually be considered as two separate endocrine glands. Both parts differ in their structure and function, and produced hormones. The stomach, pancreas, and spleen are located in front of the left adrenal gland, while the left crus of the diaphragm is behind the left gland.Įach adrenal gland consists of two parts: outer part known as the adrenal cortex, and inner part - adrenal medulla. To the anterior side of the right adrenal gland are the inferior vena cava and right lobe of the liver, while posteriorly lies the right crus of the diaphragm. The glands are located directly under the diaphragm. The adrenal glands are separated from the kidneys by perirenal fat. The weight of each gland is around 5 grams (0.18 ounce), length - 5 cm (2 inches), width - 3 cm (1.2 inches), and thickness - around 1 cm (0.4 inch).Įach gland is surrounded by a fatty capsule, and it lies within the perinephric or renal fascia together with the related kidney.
The right one is pyramid-shaped, while the left adrenal gland is semilunar-shaped and a bit larger. The right and left glands have different shapes. The color of the adrenal glands is yellowish. The adrenal glands lie on the top of the kidneys and are slightly medial to them. The peritoneum covers the glands from the anterior side, making them retroperitoneal organs.
The adrenal glands are located at the posterior part of the abdomen. Each adrenal gland have two main parts - adrenal cortex and medulla, each producing different hormones.
The adrenal glands regulate metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and even response to stress by synthesizing and secreting steroid hormones in the bloodstream. The adrenal glands (also known as suprarenal glands, singular in Latin: glandula suprarenalis) are two small endocrine organs located in the abdomen on top of each kidney.
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