# Adrenal Glands --- The **adrenal glands** are a pair of important [[endocrine gland|endocrine glands]] that sit right on top of the [[kidneys]], not because they are associated with the kidney's function, but it's just a handy little seat for them. The adrenal glands are activated by the presence of [[adrenocorticotropic hormone]], which is released by the [[pituitary gland|anterior pituitary]]. ## Anatomy The adrenal glands are pyramid shaped and have a hard protective **capsule**, then a thick **adrenal cortex** and the center is the **adrenal medulla**. Mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids like [[glucocorticoids|cortisol]] and [[renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system|aldosterone]] are produced in the cortex. Adrenal androgens are produced in the inner part of the cortex called the "reticularis" and the direct SNS neurotransmitters like [[catecholamines|epinephrine and norepinephrine]] are made in the medulla. ![[adrenal hormones.png]] ## Physiology The adrenal glands produce and release: - miner corticoids like [[renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system|aldosterone]] - [[glucocorticoids]] - in the zona fasciculata - [[reproductive system|sex hormones]] - [[catecholamines]] ## Problems with the Adrenal Glands - [[pheochromocytoma]] is a tumor of the adrenal medulla - [[Addison's disease]] is an adrenocortical insufficiency - [[Cushing syndrome]] is an excess of adrenocortical activity ___