Adrenal Physiology
- Adrenal Glands: Two triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney.
- Adrenal Cortex: Outer layer of the adrenal glands, responsible for producing corticosteroids.
- Mineralocorticoids: Regulate electrolyte balance (e.g., aldosterone).
- Glucocorticoids: Influence metabolism and immune response (e.g., cortisol).
- Androgens: Sex hormones with secondary importance in males and females.
- Adrenal Medulla: Inner part of the adrenal glands, produces catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine) involved in the “fight or flight” response.
Adrenal Disorders
- Cushing’s Syndrome:
- Excessive production of cortisol.
- Causes include adrenal tumors or prolonged use of corticosteroid medications.
- Symptoms: Weight gain, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, and changes in skin appearance.
- Addison’s Disease:
- Insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone.
- Autoimmune destruction of adrenal glands is a common cause.
- Symptoms: Fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation of the skin.
- Hyperaldosteronism:
- Excessive production of aldosterone.
- Can result from adrenal tumors or overactivity of the adrenal glands.
- Leads to increased sodium retention and potassium loss, causing high blood pressure.
- Adrenal Tumors:
- Benign or malignant growths on the adrenal glands.
- Can lead to hormone overproduction or disrupt normal adrenal function.
- Pheochromocytoma:
- Tumor in the adrenal medulla, causing excessive release of catecholamines.
- Symptoms include severe hypertension, headaches, and palpitations.
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH):
- Genetic disorder affecting the adrenal glands’ ability to produce cortisol and aldosterone.
- Results in an overproduction of androgens, leading to various symptoms depending on the specific enzyme deficiency.
- Adrenal Crisis:
- Life-threatening condition resulting from a sudden deficiency of cortisol.
- Can be triggered by stress, illness, or abrupt cessation of corticosteroid medications.
- Symptoms include severe weakness, hypotension, and electrolyte imbalances.